Canberra dog owners on high alert after suspected poisoned meat found in Commonwealth Park

Dog owners are being urged to keep pets on leads in a major Canberra parkland after suspected poison bait balls were found in chunks of meat, with authorities investigating the concerning find.

Bait balls that were found by local residents in Commonwealth Park

Dog owners are being urged to keep pets on leads in a major Canberra parkland after suspected poison bait balls were found in chunks of meat, with authorities investigating the concerning find.

The bait balls were found scattered around Canberra’s Commonwealth Park.

At least four raw meat rissoles have reportedly been discovered and removed by a concerned local, who has since alerted authorities.

However, the authorities have not been able to track down the balls, nor test them for any confirmed poisons.

The alarming find has sparked fears among residents, with hundreds of concerns aired on social media.

A public warning was quickly issued on social media to raise awareness, urging pet owners to exercise extreme caution and keep dogs on leads while in the area.

While the exact nature and intent of the bait balls remain unconfirmed, the risk to animals has prompted swift action.

The matter has been reported to the appropriate authorities, who are investigating the situation further.

“This is purely a precaution,” the original post stated. “We can’t be sure, but I wouldn’t take the risk.”

The warning post, accompanied by a photo of the suspicious meat, has since had its comments turned off to avoid misinformation, but not before reaching hundreds of concerned residents.

A spokesperson from the National Capital Authority stated that they were advised of suspected bait balls in an area of Commonwealth Park on 28 April 2025.

“The NCA arranged for an inspection of the area, on the day and did not find any suspected bait balls.”

This is the first time the NCA has received such reports.

They have advised visitors to be on the lookout and ensure children and pets are supervised at all times.

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Originally published as Canberra dog owners on high alert after suspected poisoned meat found in Commonwealth Park