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.
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).
