The RSPCA has urged snake owners to be cautious as summer expects an increasing number of snakes to escape. 

It comes as a recent incident saw the animal charity rescue a stray six-foot boa constrictor from under a garden shed in Ilkeston, Derbyshire.

Now the RSPCA has told snake owners to double-check that the reptile's enclosures are securely fastened. 

Alongside snake owners making sure their pets are safe, dog owners are also being urged to be careful when out on walks in grassed areas. 

Wimbledon Times: The RSPCA has shared advice to snake owners.The RSPCA has shared advice to snake owners. (Image: Getty)

Map reveals snake sightings in London

A recent incident in Cumbria saw a four-year-old Sprocker Spaniel get bitten by an adder snake and it was left needing European Viper Anti-Venom, K-laser therapy, fluid therapy and pain relief.

Whilst in Weymouth, Dorset a dog was killed following a wild adder bite.

Discussing the snake sightings, RSPCA senior scientific officer Evie Button said: "The RSPCA urges all pet snake owners to be extra vigilant at this time of year, invest in an enclosure suitable for the particular species and make sure that enclosure is kept secure - and locked if necessary - when unattended."

Now a map has revealed all the snake sightings in London.

There are three species of snake found in the UK: grass snakes, adders and smooth snakes. Of these, only the adder is venomous and a danger to dogs.

Adders are generally more active in the spring and early summer having just come out of hibernation, and their venom is more potent.

The adder is grey in colour and has a dark zig-zag pattern down its back and a red eye.

If you believe your dog may have been bitten by an adder, experts advise you to speak to a vet immediately.