Adders are protected under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 from being killed, injured or sold. If you see anyone killing adders, please report the incident to the police.

Adders are cold blooded and like to sunbathe on hard surfaces such as paths. They are not naturally aggressive and will disappear fast if they 'hear' someone coming, but if an adder is taken by surprise it may bite in self defence. Curious dogs occasionally annoy adders and provoke an attack.

It is very uncommon for dogs to die from adder bites, but they do need prompt treatment. In most cases a simple injection is all that is required, but in more severe cases drips and treatment for shock may be needed.

The Wicstun Veterinary Group at 45 George Street, Pocklington has experience of treating adder bites to dogs. Their 24 hour emergency number is 01430 873219.

If you are walking a dog in Allerthorpe woods, please keep it under control for its own safety. Adders, dogs and humans have shared this special place for hundreds of years and we all want to keep it that way.