Dog owners who walk their pets in the countryside are being warned about venomous snakes.
Walkers are urged to be on 'high alert' as recent warm weather has brought adders and other potentially dangerous snakes out of winter hibernation.
The cold spells leave the reptiles lethargic and more liable to be concerned by dogs.
Gill Heath, an cabinet member for Staffordshire County Council, said: "Cold snaps after they’re just emerged from hibernation can lead to conflicts between snakes and dogs, because the snakes are sluggish and less adept at evading attention.
"If cornered, the adder may bite in self-defence and it is venomous.
"We would urge dog owners to keep their pets on a lead or under very close control and avoid walking into tall heather, wet pools and marshy areas where adders can be sheltering or hunting.
"Adders will also bask on warm surfaces, such as a sunny path, so do look ahead while walking.
"If a dog is bitten, our advice is take it to a vet immediately.”
The adder is a nationally protected species and was once common on heaths, wetlands and grassy areas, StaffordshireLive reports.
Improved drainage, more farming and afforestation has affected its numbers, but there are still areas where it prospers.
Adders can be distinguished from other reptiles by dark zig-zag markings on their backs, though some can be all-black.
