Spaniel Owner Warns of Adder Risk After Dog's Death
Jo Bowen-Jones, a resident of Rhosneigr on Anglesey, is cautioning dog owners to be vigilant about adders during the summer months after her spaniel, Baxter, died following a suspected snake bite.
While walking towards Crigyll Beach on 31 March, Baxter, a springer-cocker spaniel, ran into some long grass near Afon Crigyll with his nose to the ground. Within minutes, he vomited, collapsed, and was unable to stand.
A passerby assisted by carrying the injured dog to Bowen-Jones's car, and they reached the veterinary clinic within 30 minutes. Despite treatment including paracetamol, antihistamines, and intravenous fluids, Baxter passed away six hours later.
Bowen-Jones suspected an adder bite due to Baxter's labored breathing, taut stomach, and bloodshot eyes. The veterinarian observed a small mark but no swelling, a common symptom of adder bites, and therefore could not definitively confirm the cause.
Due to concerns about Baxter's breathing and the potential side effects of anti-venom, such as anaphylaxis, he was not administered the treatment. Bowen-Jones had planned to transfer Baxter to a facility offering overnight care unavailable on the island, but before this could occur, she was informed that his heart had stopped.
"I had only had Baxter for two years, it was tragic,"
Baxter was fostered from Spaniel Aid in March 2024 and was described by Bowen-Jones as "the most loving, lovable and happy dog... a real character."
She aims to alert other dog owners in Rhosneigr to the presence of adders, which pose a particular threat to dogs during warmer months, according to Amphibian and Reptile Conservation.
About the Adder and Its Habitat
The adder is the only venomous snake native to the UK and is protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, making it illegal to kill, harm, injure, sell, or trade them.
These snakes are commonly found in southern and southwestern England, western Wales, and Scotland. Their habitats include sand dunes, rocky hillsides, moorland, and woodland edges.
In 2025, a reptile believed to be an adder was spotted on Morfa'r Garreg beach in Pwllheli, Gwynedd. That same year, South Wales Police issued warnings to keep dogs on leads following increased adder sightings in Port Eynon and near Worm's Head in Gower, Swansea.
Symptoms and Concerns for Dogs
Symptoms of adder bites in dogs include pain, swelling, bruising, lethargy, drooling, and vomiting.
Spaniel Aid expressed devastation over Baxter's death, noting the particular risk adders pose to spaniels, which are known for not sticking to paths.
New Beginnings for Jo Bowen-Jones
Since Baxter's passing, Bowen-Jones has adopted a five-year-old springer spaniel named Ty, as her home felt "very empty" without her beloved companion.
"I wanted to give another dog a happy loving home,"
She and Ty have visited Rhosneigr beach together, a place Baxter "loved so much."
What to Do if Your Dog Is Bitten by an Adder
According to the veterinary charity PDSA, snake bites in dogs are emergencies. They recommend following first aid advice promptly and taking the dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible.
The PDSA advises dog owners to avoid areas known for adders during the summer months, particularly between June and August. If walking in such areas, dogs should be kept on a path and on a lead.
