Recently there has been a spate of dog baiting occurring across suburbs of Adelaide. While no baits have been found or reported in the northern suburbs, Barossa, or the Gawler area, we are urging all pet owners to be vigilant when walking their pet in parks and recreation areas.
We would like to warn all dog and pet owners to be on alert for poisoned baits when out walking with their animal. Do not let your pet eat scraps or leavings they find when out walking.
In the last fortnight attempts to bait dogs have been reported in the southern suburbs at the Shepherds Hill Recreation Park and along the Esplanade at Port Noarlunga South.
The Rose Park Veterinary Clinic has reported that they have treated a case of poisoning which they believe came from a bait set at the Victoria Park Racecourse, and the Tea Tree Gully Council has issued a warning to users of the Torrens Linear Park after poisoned baits were found in the undergrowth along the walking trail.
Police are investigating each incident, but at this stage, no arrests have been made.
While there is no reason to suspect that baits have been laid in the northern suburbs, Barossa, or Gawler area we would urge everyone to be vigilant and cautious.
In South Australia, the ANIMAL WELFARE ACT 1985 states that if a “person intends to cause, or is reckless about causing, the death of, or serious harm to, the animal, the person is guilty of an offence”, which can attract fines of up to $50 000, or even imprisonment for up to 4 years.
Signs to look out for that are consistent with poisoning in dogs include
Lethargy
Seizures
Vomiting and diarrhea
Bleeding
If you suspect that your dog or pet has ingested poison, whether from a bait or any other source, contact a vet and bring your pet in for treatment immediately.
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