There has been a sharp increase in dog poisonings in Joburg’s northern suburbs, the Douglasdale Community Policing Forum (CPF) warns.
Sector 1 CPF chairperson Charmaine van Rijswijk has confirmed that almost 30 poison-related incidents have been reported to the CPF by different resident associations across Northwold, Chartwell, Farmall, Bloubosrand and Olivedale in the last two weeks.
Most incidents occurred in the early mornings on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
“Five dogs have died and the poison Temik (2step) was used in all cases,” said Van Rijswijk.
Douglasdale Police have urged members of the public to report cases of dog poisoning in order for them to establish patterns, so that they can continue to investigate further.
The following steps should be taken if you suspect your dog has been poisoned:
Personal safety
Avoid contact with saliva, bodily fluids, or any other excretions by wearing gloves.
Dog may become aggressive because it is under distress or disorientated, so do not attempt to look inside the dog’s mouth.
Immediate treatment
Try to administer activated charcoal, which can be found at all chemists and vets. This will slow the absorption of the poison, but will not cure the dog.
Also try to give the dog laxatives.
Wrap the animal in a blanket, but try to make sure it doesn’t over-heat under it.
Get your dog to a vet immediately.
Check fences and walls for more poisoned meats (Russian sausages, boerewors or minced meat are commonly used.
Emergency veterinary clinics in and around Randburg
Bryanston 24-hour Veterinary Clinic, 6 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston – 011 706 6023/4/5
Fourways 24-hour Veterinary Clinic, Corner of Witkoppen Road and The Straight Pineslopes, Fourways – 011 705 3411
