Recent burglaries in Roodepoort have brought to light a trend in dog poisoning, as reported by Witpoortjie residents on Thursday 15 August.
In Leeukop Street, Witpoortjie, a GoMoto motorcycle was stolen from Maxine Koekemoer’s property in the early morning hours on Thursday.
“It all took place between 12 midnight and 3am while I was asleep in my bedroom,” she told the Record.
According to Koekemoer the stolen motorcycle is worth R30 000 and was purchased only a month ago. The motorcycle belonged to her daughter’s boyfriend.
The biggest impact on the Koekemoers, however, was the death of two of the five dogs they kept on the property – due to poisoning.
“Another two poisoned dogs are currently at a veterinary clinic and we hope that they will make it,” Koekemoer said.
“Luckily the fifth one is a small breed and spends its nights inside the house, therefore was not poisoned.”
Tragically the poison that was found on the sidewalk outside the property later caused the death of a neighbour’s dog as well. She discovered that other dogs also were poisoned in Heerengracht Street.
“The Roodepoort police prohibited us from moving or removing the poison since they want to test it,” Koekemoer said, showing the Record journalist an SPCA pamphlet that informed her of the poison used.
“I want to warn residents of what seems to be taking place in the area concerning dog poisoning.”
According to the Bayer HealthCare Animal Health pamphlet an active ingredient called aldicarb (found in most commercial pesticides) could poison both animals and humans.
“I was warned that once you suspect an animal is poisoned, you should search the environment for bait, which is usually meat-based.
“The bait usually contains granules that are black and that resemble poppy seeds. In our case it was distributed wrapped in plastic.
“You could also check for the granules in the animal’s vomit.
“You should ensure that your children and other animals are kept away from the contaminated area.
“Should you have to handle a poisoned animal, use gloves and wrap the animal in a blanket to avoid further exposure and to keep it warm.
“Ensure that you protect your eyes.”
The Bayer HealthCare pamphlet further instructs that poisoned animals should reach a veterinarian as soon as possible. Homeowners are advised that they can dispose of toxins and contaminated material by sweeping, picking up the bait and washing the area with household detergents, especially dishwashing liquid, since the toxins are usually fat-soluble. Toxins and contaminated materials should be double-bagged and veterinarians should be able to advise owners on how to dispose of them. The pamphlet warns that pool acid and bleach must not be used for cleaning purposes.
