A VETERINARY clinic has warned dog walkers that their pets are at risk of being bitten by adders following three incidents in the past few weeks.
After the hot and dry weather coaxed the snakes out of hibernation to sunbathe in the grass, three dogs had to be treated at Forest Veterinary Clinic, which has clinics in Fordingbridge and Ringwood.
The adder is the UK's only venomous snake and its bite can result in swelling around the wound.
This can be severe for animals and humans alike.
Head Veterinary Nurse at Forest Veterinary Clinic, Rachel Russell said: "Adders can be found in heathlands or places where they can bathe in the sun. After lockdown, everyone is walking more and going further afield, so you tend to see the snakes more often. Dog owners need to be aware that the snakes are probably there.