'Be aware and alert' - Dog lovers unite in warning campaign over adders on Cannock Chase

Three dog lovers are warning people over the dangers of adders on Cannock Chase after a number of dogs were bitten.

The women have issued posters giving advice after incidents in recent weeks in different areas of the Chase, attributed partly to the breeding season for adders and the snakes coming out to bask in the sun.

Nikki Hunter, Sarah Chlechowicsz and Michelle Lees run Mooches and More, Chase Best for Pets, and Chase Dog Services.

They have placed the posters, which include a map of the danger areas, at different locations including the German Cemetery which was the subject of a breeding programme for adders.

Recently a Staffordshire Bull Terrier called Sky was badly injured after she disturbed an adder when being walked by her owner in the Brindley Bottom area - she is recovering but has been left scarred and Michelle said they wanted to get a message out there.

She said: "Cannock Chase is a beautiful area and a haven for people who want to enjoy the natural habitat, including of course dog walkers but that habitat includes adders who have lived there for hundreds of years and can be dangerous if they attack.

"We got together via a GoFundMe to place posters in strategic positions, not just at Brindley Bottom but by the German Cemetery and Marquis Drive.

"It is mainly for advice which really means to keep your dog on a lead wherever possible or if they are running free to keep them on the designated paths and trails - if they stray into the overgrowth this is where they are likely to come across the adders.

“If they do get bit it is important to keep their heart rate as low as possible and calm and walk slowly to your vehicle before getting them to a vet as soon as possible.

“The posters have been well received and hopefully if it saves one dog from being bitten it will have been worthwhile because although Sky is ok now thanks to emergency vet treatment, she will be scarred inside her mouth and there have been a number of bites recently.”

Staffordshire County Council recently issued a warning to keep dogs on leads as adders emerged from hibernation

Sarah Bentley, head of Environment and Countryside, said: “Cannock Chase is one of the few remaining strongholds for adders, so it’s incredibly important we look after them.

“They are shy animals that usually avoid people and dogs but, in rare cases, may bite if they feel threatened.

“By keeping dogs on leads and sticking to marked paths, visitors can help protect these remarkable reptiles and the wider wildlife that makes Cannock Chase so special.”