Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Effects of bites by the European adder (Vipera berus) in seven Swedish horses.
- Journal:
- The Veterinary record
- Year:
- 2008
- Authors:
- Anlén, K G
- Affiliation:
- msholm Regional Equine Hospital
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
This study looked at the effects of bites from the European adder snake on seven horses in Sweden. The horses showed a range of symptoms, from mild swelling and some general illness to very serious issues like severe tissue damage, rapid heart rate, and difficulty swallowing. Two of the horses received a specific antivenom treatment, while three others that did not receive treatment had to be put to sleep due to complications from the bites. Overall, the treatment with antivenom was necessary for some horses, but not all were saved.
Abstract
The effects on seven horses of bites by the European adder (Vipera berus) are described and compared with previously available information. The clinical signs varied from local swelling and mild systemic signs to severe systemic signs, including systemic inflammatory response, severe tissue necrosis, ventricular tachycardia and dysphagia. Two of the horses were treated with 'Zagreb' antiserum, and three that were not treated with antiserum were euthanased owing to complications related to the bites.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18487585/