Pet owners warned of poisonous substance in Cranbrook community forest
By Nelson Daily Staff
The Ministry of Forest, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, Recreation Sites and Trails BC is warning residents and visitors to keep pets on leash in the Cranbrook Community Forest, or avoid the area altogether, after two dogs died recently from ingesting a poisonous substance.
Warning signs have been posted at multiple access points to the community forest.
The two dogs were observed eating a white fatty-like substance. Local RCMP are investigating the incidents.
“We’re sure many of you have heard of the suspected poisoning at the community forest,” the Cranbrook Veterinary Hospital said on its Facebook Page Friday.
“The RCMP and the local CO are trying to determine the facts regarding this horrible situation, whether accidental or intentional! The clinics in town are compiling samples and are trying to positively determine the toxin that is involved.”
The Cranbrook Veterinary Hospital said a toxicologist at WCVM is suspicious the toxin fluoroacetate (1080) may have been used based on clinical signs but this is unconfirmed at this time. We will keep you updated as we know more.
“Until this issue is resolved we recommend keeping a watchful eye on your pets and if you are in the community forest (more specifically the third parking lot area) please keep your pets on a leash.”
The public is advised that if anyone suspects their dog has ingested something suspicious please call the clinic.
“If you dog is showing abnormal behavior including agitation, barking, frantic running, unresponsiveness, a blue colour to the gums or seizures please call the clinic immediately at (250)426-8517.”
“If you see any suspicious fatty substance in the forest or have any information regarding these suspected poisonings please call the Cranbrook RCMP. DO NOT call 911.”
Pet owners should keep an eye out for the white substance and to report any further instances to local RCMP, or the Province’s RAPP line at 1 877 952-7277 (RAPP), or online at: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/cos/rapp/form.htm#
