I feel I should stop writing about seasonal variations in the weather and its implications on the health of our pets – every time I mention the weather, I manage to jinx things.

Last week I wrote that we were all able to get out for lovely long dog walks in this glorious weather but as I sit to write this week’s article it is approximately zero degrees outside.

Six weeks ago, I mentioned the imminent arrival of Storm Eunice and hoped that it would not be too disruptive – only to be hit by a 52-hour power cut with a litter of nine puppies in the house – hard work I can tell you!

So, it is with some trepidation that I mention anything else that is “seasonally” related – I fear that if I mention adders then it will rain solidly for a month! Joking aside though, we have seen our first adder bite of the season; as I advise every year - dog owners please familiarise yourself with what adders look like, avoid them at all costs if you see them out enjoying the sun and stay calm but act promptly to get your dog to a vet if they are bitten.

As well as adder bites we will be seeing an upsurge in the numbers of ticks latching onto our pets as we do every spring. Do check that the flea treatment that you use also treats ticks – not all of them do. Clients are often surprised when I point this out, so it is worth checking with your vet what are the best flea and tick treatments out there. Now you are ready for the spring I hope I have not jinxed us into a wet and cold April.

Alice Moore is a vet at Castle Veterinary Clinic, Dorchester and Weymouth. Tel 01305 267083