Dog dies after suspected adder bite near beach

A woman whose spaniel died following a suspected snake bite is warning other dog owners to be vigilant of adders during the summer months.

Jo Bowen-Jones, from Rhosneigr on Anglesey, was heading towards Crigyll Beach when Baxter ran into long grass near Afon Crigyll with his "nose to the ground".

Within a few minutes, the springer-cocker had vomited, collapsed and was unable to get up.

A passer-by helped carry Baxter to Jo's car, and they were with the vet 30 minutes later. But despite being given paracetamol, antihistamines and a drip, Baxter died six hours later.

Jo said she suspected Baxter had been bitten by an adder during the walk on 31 March because of his laboured breathing, taut stomach and bloodshot eyes.

The vet found a small mark but no swelling, which is a common symptom of an adder bite, so was unable to confirm it was the cause.

Baxter was not given anti-venom over concerns about his breathing and possible side effects, which can include anaphylaxis.

His owner planned to take him to a facility for overnight care not available on the island but before she could collect him, she received a call saying Baxter's heart had stopped.

"I had only had Baxter for two years, it was tragic," she said.

Jo fostered Baxter from Spaniel Aid in March 2024 and said he was the "most loving, lovable and happy dog... a real character".

She said she wanted to warn other dog owners in Rhosneigr to look out for adders, which pose a particular risk to dogs in the warmer months, according to the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation.

The species is the only venomous snake native to the UK and is protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, meaning it is an offence to kill, harm, injure, sell or trade them.

They are commonly found in the south and south-west of England, western Wales and Scotland and 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.

The same year, a warning was issued by South Wales Police to keep dogs on leads following increased sightings of adders in Port Eynon and near Worm's Head in Gower, Swansea.

Symptoms of adder bites in dogs include pain and swelling, bruising, lethargy, drooling and vomiting.

Spaniel Aid said it was "devastated" to hear what had happened to Baxter.

"Adders are a real worry for spaniel owners, as spaniels aren't known for sticking to the path," it said.

Jo has since adopted a five-year-old springer spaniel called Ty as her house felt "very empty" without her beloved companion.

She said she wanted to give another dog a "happy loving home" and the pair had visited Rhosneigr beach together, which Baxter "loved so much".

Snake bites are an emergency in dogs, according to vet charity, PDSA.

It recommends initially following its first aid advice then taking the dog to the vet as soon as possible.

The PDSA said dog owners should avoid areas well known for adders in the summer months - especially between June and August - and if walking in those areas, to keep dogs on a path and a lead.