Police probe possible Sunbury dog baiting incident

A DOG has died and another left fighting for life after a possible baiting ­incident in Sunbury. Police are investigating.

A DOG has died and another left fighting for life after a possible baiting ­incident in Sunbury.

Ian Davies’ two-year-old Belgian Shepherd, Chance, ­remains critically ill after ingesting an unknown substance in Sunbury on Sunday.

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Mr Davies told 3AW his beloved pet’s toxin levels were “through the roof”.

He said he was knew something was wrong when Chance and an older dog they were looking after, a border collie named Rua, started barking late on Sunday night.

“They both started barking after eating the bait,” Mr ­Davies said.

The distraught owner said the Rua “let out a howl” before falling into a convulsive fit.

Rua “let out a howl” after eating the bait and died. Picture: Supplied

Chance­ remains critically ill after ingesting an unknown substance. Picture: Supplied

Both dogs were rushed to a nearby vet but Rua could not be saved. Chance ­remains under veterinary care.

Chance’s owner, Madison Davies, cut short her holiday in South Australia to return to her dog.

Ms Davies found pills in the yard on Tuesday morning, which have been handed on to police.

“Rua was my boyfriend’s family dog and started going into seizures and whining — his distress may have saved Chance’s life as they got him straight down to the emergency vet,” she said.

“(Chance is) awake, but still critical and is not out of the woods.”

Rua was rushed to the vets but could not be saved. Picture: Supplied

Chance is awake but still in a critical condition. Picture: Supplied

RSPCA Victoria Team Leader, North West Metro, Karen Collier said the incident was under investigation.

A Victoria Police spokesman said an unknown woman was seen loitering in front of the Underhill Court house between 10pm and 11.30pm.

“It’s believed at this stage the female has poisoned two border collie dogs while they were in the backyard,” the spokesman said.

The woman is perceived to be caucasian and in her late 30s to early 40s with a slim build. She was wearing white baggy shorts or a skirt.

Baiting animals with poisonous or harmful substance is illegal and offenders face 12 months imprisonment and up to $40,000 in fines.

It comes as a three-year-old dog had to have its stomach pumped after chewing on a meat pie laced with poison, discovered in the backyard of a home in North Melbourne last year.

RSPCA Victoria was appealing for information following the incident in November, 2017.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at crimestoppersvic.com.au