Dog poisoning increases in Pretoria North
"The poisoning of dogs is usually associated with increased crime in a neighbourhood."
Specialised Security Services has warned residents of Pretoria North of an increase in dog poisonings in the area.
Mike Bolhuis, investigator of serious, violent and serious economic crime and owner of Specialised Security Services said the poisoning of dogs is usually associated with increased crime in a neighbourhood.
Bolhuis said it is thought that a neurotoxin by the street name Two Step, is being used to poison dogs deliberately, however, they await confirmation on that.
He said Two Step is a tasteless, odourless black powder, often laced on dog food by would-be robbers.
“They toss the food over walls and fences, then wait a few days for the dogs to die. Some die approximately 20 minutes after consumption.
“Other dogs show various symptoms and die hours to days later if not taken to a veterinarian as soon as possible.”
Bolhuis said symptoms of poisoning can occur in different combinations such as foaming from the mouth, vomiting, diarrhoea, severe abdominal pain, muscle twitching, spasms, severe weakness and difficulty breathing.
“It can also cause change in behaviour, constricted or dilated pupils, collapse and coma.”
Bolhuis said preventative measures include:
– Let your dogs sleep inside at night where they can still alert you if there are intruders.
– Walk the dogs early in the mornings fastened to a leash.
– Look carefully for any signs of bait food.
– Pay special attention to fence lines along your property as well as areas where you think it might be easy to toss something over a fence/wall/hedge into your property.
– Contact a dog trainer or behaviourist for advice on how to discourage your dog from eating anything other than their usual food or taking food from anyone else let alone strangers.
– Keep emergency veterinarian contact numbers close at hand.
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