The Woodbridge Vets: March newsletter!

Hello and welcome to our March newsletter!

With spring just around the corner, there’s something uplifting in the air, with slightly warmer days and more sunshine brightening the sky. The days are gradually getting longer, mornings are a little brighter, and the evenings are stretching out just enough to enjoy that extra bit of daylight. It’s the perfect time of year to refresh, reset, and look ahead to

the months ahead...

We Take A Different Approach

In the world of veterinary surgery, many practices offer advanced procedures in-house but rely on visiting surgeons to carry them out. While this can appear convenient, it can sometimes create a disconnect between the pet owner and the surgeon. The person performing the operation may not be available for follow-up care, and if unexpected complications arise, owners may feel unsure about who is overseeing their pet’s recovery. Coordinating with visiting surgeons can also lead to scheduling delays, prolonging discomfort and anxiety for both pets and their families.

At The Woodbridge Vets, we take a different approach. We place a strong emphasis on continuity of care and believe this is essential, especially when your pet requires surgery. That’s why all of our fully qualified surgeons work full-time within the practice. From the initial consultation through to the procedure itself and every post-operative check, you will

see the same dedicated surgeon.

This consistency means you have the opportunity to build a trusted relationship with the person responsible for your pet’s treatment. You can ask questions, discuss concerns, and feel confident that your pet’s case is fully understood at every stage. There is no need to repeat information or adjust to a new clinician midway through recovery.

Having permanent, on-site veterinary staff also allows us to arrange procedures promptly, without waiting for external availability. Timely intervention can make a significant difference to your pet’s comfort, healing, and overall outcome. We prioritise open communication, continuity and compassionate veterinary care, ensuring that both you and your pet feel supported throughout the entire surgical journey. When it comes to your pet’s health and wellbeing, knowing and trusting the vet providing their care offers invaluable peace of mind.

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Warmer Weather And Adders

As we head into spring and enjoy the warmer weather, it’s also the time of year when snakes become more active. This means you’re more likely to encounter them while out walking your dog. As you know, spring is the peak season for adder activity, so we want to remind all dog owners to remain vigilant. We have already had one confirmed case of an adder bite at the practice this month, highlighting how important it is to stay aware and prepared.

In the UK, we have just one species of venomous snake - the European adder (Vipera berus). While adders aren’t the only reptiles you might come across, they can sometimes be mistaken at a glance for a grass snake, slow worm, or even a common lizard. However, if you’re able to take a closer (but safe) look, adders can be identified by the distinct zigzag pattern running along their back.

They tend to remain hidden in undergrowth, so the safest approach is to stick to footpaths and keep your dog on a lead, especially in areas where snakes are known to be active. If you do come across a snake in the open, give it plenty of space and allow it to move away. Locally, areas such as the heathlands of the Suffolk coast provide an ideal habitat for adders, and sightings are not uncommon - particularly in the early morning when they bask on footpaths to warm up. Later in the day, they are more likely to remain hidden. However, while we may not see them, curious dogs often do, and unfortunately, this can sometimes lead to bites if the snake feels threatened.

What happens if a dog is bitten?

While adder bites are rarely fatal, they can be extremely painful and distressing for your pet. Prompt veterinary treatment is crucial and can make all the difference. Treatment usually involves pain relief and managing swelling, and in some cases, antivenom may be required. Fortunately, with prompt care, most dogs make a full and speedy recovery. If you are unsure what to do, bring your dog straight to the vets immediately. Call ahead to inform the practice that you are on your way and briefly explain what has happened - this helps the team prepare for your arrival and ensures your pet receives treatment as quickly as possible.

Adders are easy to identify. They are small, grey or brown snakes with a distinctive V-shaped marking on their head and a dark zigzag pattern running down their back. They are most commonly found in long grass, woodland, moorland, and along the coast (such as sand dunes and coastal paths). Adders are active from February to October and hibernate during the winter. We’ve included photos below for reference, as some people may confuse adders with grass snakes or something else.

If you would like to find more information or learn about the symptoms of an adder bite, please visit or as your nominated vet for more information.

Find out more information

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