Useful information for dog owners
and what matters in an emergency
Düsseldorf. On a summer walk in nature, humans and dogs can easily come across a snake. But don't panic! Agria explains where poisonous snake species are found in Germany, how to protect your four-legged friend in snake areas and how to react correctly in an emergency. For the animal insurer, the well-being and protection of all animals is the highest priority.
Snakes are rare and shy in Germany, but encounters with dogs can still occur in several places in Germany during the summer months. There are seven native species: the asp viper, the barred grass snake, the adder, the grass snake, the smooth snake, the dice snake and the Aesculapian snake. All of these are endangered and protected. Only two of these snake species are poisonous: the adder and the asp viper. Their slit-shaped, vertical pupils distinguish them from the native non-poisonous snakes. The asp viper only occurs in the southern Black Forest, while the adder is more widespread. Since snakes are adapted to a certain climate and habitat, species from warmer areas can also spread further north due to climate change.
Recognizing adders while walking
The reptile of the year 2024 is in serious danger of extinction and needs our protection. Adders are rare and even if they are not life-threatening for humans, they can be dangerous for dogs. The shy snake can occur in shades of brown, gray or black and usually has a characteristic dark zigzag band on its back. The adder, which can grow up to 70 centimeters long, occurs from the islands of Rügen and Hiddensee across the eastern low mountain ranges to the Alpine foothills, but its habitats are increasingly shrinking. It needs places of retreat between tree roots and piles of stones to hide and hibernate. The cold-blooded animal likes places with high humidity and strong day-night temperature gradients – such as heaths, moors, forest edges – and enjoys extensive sunbathing. When encountering people and dogs, its first instinct is to flee – it only bites in defense if it feels threatened.
Tips for walking in snake-infested areas
Note the period: From October to April, native snakes retreat and hibernate. They are primarily encountered in summer, with the effects of climate change affecting their reproduction, food availability and hibernation options. As a result, snakes may be encountered outside of the typical sighting period.
Put on a leash: In the typical habitats of the adder and asp viper, it is recommended to keep dogs on a leash. This way, dog owners can avoid bites and not disturb the protected snakes unnecessarily. With their curious and impetuous nature, dogs can easily get too close to snakes in the tall grass or thickets.
When encountering, retreat: If you see a viper or an asp viper, you should stop, stay calm and slowly retreat with your dog.
Dangers of a snake bite: Snake bites occur within fractions of a second and can therefore go unnoticed. The poison has a blood-dissolving effect, destroys tissue and can cause nerve damage. Risk factors include the amount of poison injected, the size and weight of the dog, its constitution and age, and the part of the body where the bite occurred. If parts of the body with good blood flow or larger blood vessels are hit, the poison's effect is accelerated considerably.
Symptoms: The first signs can be howling, changes in behavior, or limping. Two stings with surrounding swelling and discoloration of the skin are typical. Progressive symptoms include increased salivation, nausea, weakness, clouding of consciousness, breathing difficulties, cardiac arrhythmias, and shock. The severity varies depending on the snake, the amount of venom, and the size of the dog.
Checklist in case of a snake bite
● Calm the dog, put him on a leash and avoid physical activity.
● Examine the body thoroughly for bite marks.
● Do not manipulate the bite site and do not tie off any body parts.
● Cool swelling.
● If extremities are bitten, immobilize them, use a splint and elevate them.
● Monitor breathing and heart rate.
● Immediately go to a veterinary clinic or veterinary practice and take the dog.
Dog owners should be alert and cautious in areas where snakes are present, respect the endangered animals and act quickly and cautiously in the event of a bite. With the right information, humans, dogs and snakes can coexist peacefully, safely and without fear.
Interested in other health topics for dogs and cats? Agria Animal Insurance has a comprehensive collection of important tips on pet health, checked by veterinarians, on its website under the heading “The vet answers”. Find out more now.
Sources: Berliner Zeitung | Germany's nature | FIRST AID FOR DOGS | NABU | Editorial network Germany