Sunshine Coast Police are investigating recent social media reports that a number of dogs have died recently from possibly ingesting poison type substances after visiting the Point Cartwright and Buddina beach areas.
Investigations are being undertaken into these reports and it is important that if you believe your dog has been affected that this matter is reported to police.
Some symptoms that may indicate that your dog has ingested something poisonous include:
– Vomiting
– Diarrhoea, possibly bloody
– High temperature
– Lethargic
– Rapid breathing
If investigations determine that these were intentional acts there are a number of offences that relate to this matter and include the following:
Serious animal cruelty (s242 Criminal Code 1899) a person who, with the intention of inflicting severe pain or suffering, unlawfully kills, or causes serious injury or prolonged suffering to, an animal commits a crime. Maximum penalty—7 years imprisonment.
Cruelty offences (Animal Care and Protection Act 2001) which include killing an animal in an inhumane, causing it not to die quickly or to die in unreasonable pain. Maximum penalties of 2000 penalty units or 3 years imprisonment
Baits or harmful substances (Animal Care and Protection Act 2001) states that a person must not, with the intention of injuring or killing an animal administer or feed the animal a substance the person is harmful or poisonous to the animal or lay a bait. Maximum penalty of 300 penalty units or 1 year imprisonment.
Dog owners are encouraged to report any incidents to police and if you have any information about the incidents to contact Policelink on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
The RSPCA can also be contacted on 1300ANIMAL.
