Summary
Objective
In some regions of Germany dogs are presented to the veterinarian due to a snake bite,
especially during the summer. These patients often show multiple clinical and laboratory
deviations. Without a significant history diagnosis is commonly difficult. Aim of
this retrospective study was to analyze exposure, physical examination and clinical
pathology results as well as course and outcome in dogs presented after European adder
bites.
Material and methods
Patient history of 15 dogs diagnosed with European adder bites over a 6.5-year-period
were evaluated retrospectively. Normality of data distribution was tested by D’Agostino
and Pearson omnibus normality test. Data were analyzed by T-test and Wilcoxon-matched-pairs-signed
rank-test. P-values < 0.05 were considered significant.
Results
All 15 dogs were presented within 1–48 hours after the snakebite. Most common clinical
signs were local swelling and pain. Clinical pathology results on day 1 included haemoconcentration,
leukocytosis and coagulopathy. On the second day of hospitalization heart rate and
haematocrit declined significantly. Treatment included fluid therapy, antibiotic and
antihistaminic drugs, glucocorticosteroids, antivenom and analgesics. One of 15 dogs
died on the third day of hospitalization, all others were discharged. Duration of
hospitalization was between 1 and 8 days (mean 4.2 ± 1.9 days).
Clinical relevance
Dogs affected by European adder bites most often present with swelling and pain at
the site of the bite, most frequently on the head and limbs. Patients require intensive
symptomatic therapy including antibiotics and analgesics, if indicated. With adequate
therapy survival rate is high. For some patients European adder bites may be lethal.
Keywords
Snakebite - haemoconcentration - coagulopathy - antivenom - prognosis
