Dog poisoning with criminal intent is unfortunately a common occurrence in South Africa.
In most cases of dog poisoning a product with the street name “Two-Step” is being used as was seen the past week with the killing of lions and cubs in Rustenburg.
Commercially known as “Temik”, with the active ingredient Aldicarb, Two-Step is an “Organophosphate” and when ingested causes failure of the nervous system. If left untreated it can lead to a very traumatic death.
Aldicarb affects all muscles including the ability to breath, heartbeat, and intestines.
Two-step is normally a black/dark grey granular substance (½mm diameter), resembling poppy seeds or gun powder and placed in meat/bread and thrown over the perimeter walls into the premises.
Multi pieces of bait are normally used.
Symptoms of Two-Step” poisoning can show within 5 minutes (hence the name “Two-Step”) and includes some of the following: weak/paralysis, nausea/vomiting, salivation, epilepsy, urination, muscle tremors, and pupil constriction.
Dog Poison First Aid
Remember the Parachute Principle: Make sure you have it BEFORE you NEED it….
Personal Safety
•Avoid contact with salvia, body fluids or other excretions;
•Wear gloves;
•Your dog is in distress and might show signs of aggression, be careful;
•Do not put your finger inside the mouth as your dog may bite.
Immediate Treatment
•Administer Activated Charcoal to slow absorption (available from a chemist/vet);
•Administer a Laxative (available from a vet or most supermarkets); keep the animal warm with a light blanket;
•Check the yard thoroughly for more pieces of poisoned bait;
•Get your pet to a vet immediately – many dogs die within 20 minutes.
Special kits to treat dogs to keep them alive before they get to the vet are also available at the Carletonville SPCA.
At the Vet
The Vet will administer a scheduled drug (normally Atropine) to reverse the damage caused by the poison and will put your pet on a drip and keep it for a day or so for observation depending on the severity of the poisoning. (Source: Special Operations Group, 123 Second Ave, Florentia, Alberton).
