West Rand sees sharp rise in deliberate dog poisonings
Residents are urged to stay vigilant as criminals have found a deadly way to silence the four-legged guardians of your homes.
A local security company has warned of a sharp increase in deliberate dog poisonings amid escalating criminal activity across the West Rand.
BCI Security chief communications officer Paul Catlett said multiple incidents have been reported over the past two weeks in which dogs were poisoned using chemically laced meat thrown over perimeter walls.
“Once ingested, these substances can cause fatal reactions within minutes, leaving families devastated and properties vulnerable,” warned Catlett.
He explained that criminals are increasingly targeting dogs because they often serve as both companions and frontline early-warning systems. Removing a dog can weaken a property’s security before an attempted break-in.
BCI Security is urging residents to take proactive steps to protect their dogs and strengthen perimeter security:
• Secure your yard to prevent bait from being thrown onto the property
• Feed dogs at set times to reduce the likelihood of them eating unfamiliar food
• Install motion lighting or CCTV to detect suspicious activity and deter intruders
• Train dogs not to accept food from strangers, including food thrown over walls
• Conduct nightly perimeter checks for unusual objects or signs of tampering
Catlett urged residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious behaviour and share these precautions within their communities.
“With vigilance and consistent preventative action, communities can protect both their beloved dogs and the broader safety of their homes,” he said.
