A Chester veterinary practice is urging animal-owners to be on the lookout for symptoms amid fears that sausages containing paracetamol are being left along paths in Blacon and the Countess of Chester Country Park.
Vets4Pets on Brook Lane recently treated a client’s two dogs, which both presented symptoms of paracetamol toxicity.
One of the dogs, which was elderly, sadly passed away, while the second dog collapsed 48 hours later with the same symptoms.
Practice partner Jo Holly said the first dog’s symptoms weren’t linked to a toxin as age-related problems can present in a similar way, but that her death was ‘surprisingly rapid’ despite treatment.
The other dog, however, survived after receiving a paracetamol antidote, which led Jo to believe that paracetamol toxicity was the most likely reason for both animals’ ‘rapid and life-threatening illnesses’.
Vets4Pets were then alerted to a Facebook thread which alleged that paracetamol was being hidden in sausages and left for animals to find.
Jo said they have heard of sausages being spotted on the cycle path towards Blacon, as well as Frankfurters in the undergrowth on walking paths near the hospital, prompting the clinic to issue a warning to pet-owners.
Paracetamol contains an active ingredient called acetaminophen and can be toxic to dogs in large doses.
But all doses are highly toxic to cats.
Jo said: “We do not understand why anyone would do this, they are affecting peoples lives and families and potentially killing innocent pets in a horrible and painful way.
“We hope that by alerting the pet owning public we can avoid any more deaths and devastation to families losing their beloved pets.”
Signs to look out for include lethargy or depression, lack of appetite, dark and loose faeces, vomiting and a muddy colour to gums.
Jo explained that in such cases, the symptoms develop quickly and simultaneously so dogs often present in a collapsed state.
RSPCA advice
RSPCA regional press officer Rachel Butler added: “We are very concerned to hear that someone may be deliberately trying to harm dogs by leaving paracetamol in sausages on the floor along well-known dog-walking routes in Chester.
“Dogs are naturally very curious animals and are likely to be drawn to any food on the floor. We urge dog-walkers to be cautious when walking in the area and to keep a close eye on their dogs while out walking.
“If you believe your dog has ingested something toxic, contact your vets immediately and follow any advice that they give you.
“Anyone who has any information about these incidents should contact us on 0300 1234 999.”
