Dog walkers in East Sussex are on high alert after sausages stuffed with toxic-looking blue pellets were found on a popular path.
Slug pellets
The cocktail sausages were discovered by the owner of a local pet shop Doggy Style Pet Service at 6pm on Wednesday (9 April) as he walked along the Cuckoo trail in Hailsham.
The company immediately posted a warning on their Facebook page.
“They look like slug pellets and had started to liquefy with the moisture of the sausage, which of course could be fatal todogs or small children,” he said.
The police have been alerted, who have since been warning the public via social media.
Suspected poisonings
An RSPCA spokesman said they are “deeply concerned” about any suspected poisonings, particularly where evidence suggests it may be deliberate.
“Animals, and especially dogs, are often extremely curious and will be drawn to food,” they said. “Ingesting just the smallest amounts of some substances can lead to kidney failure and death.
“If anyone suspects that their dog has been poisoned they must take it to a vet immediately. If possible, they should take a sample of what the dog has eaten.”
Criminal offence
This is the second time dog poisoning has hit the news. An Irish Setter died after competing at Crufts. The owner initially thought he had been poisoned at the dog show. However, toxicology reports revealed the contaminated meat had been eaten when the dog returned to home to Belgium, many hours after leaving the show.
Poisoning is a criminal offence in the UK under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. The maximum penalty is six months imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £20,000.