Two dogs die as poisonings return to popular coastal walking spot

Two dogs have died this month after ingesting an unknown toxin at the same Sunshine Coast beach where dog poisonings were reported earlier this year.

At least seven dogs have died from poisonings at Point Cartwright and Buddina this year. Picture: Patrick Woods.

Two more dogs have died just before Christmas after ingesting an unknown toxin following a spate of poisonings at the same popular walking spot earlier this year.

The Sunshine Coast Council issued a warning of dog poisonings at Point Cartwright and Buddina on December 23, with RSPCA QLD spokeswoman Emma Lagoon confirming that two dogs had died with a suspected third dog also dying.

“It appears that these three dogs have been walked along the beach in the same area, although we haven’t been able to confirm this just yet,” she said.

“We’re warning all dog owners out walking in the area to be vigilant and ensure they watch their pet, so they don’t ingest anything of unknown origin.”

Ms Lagoon said the matter was currently being investigated by RSPCA QLD and urged anyone with information, or who believed their dog had been impacted, to call the 1300 ANIMAL hotline.

This comes after five dogs died in less than a week in August after walking at Point Cartwright and Buddina.

Point Cartwright and La Balsa Park is a popular dog walking destination. Picture: Tegan Annett

Investigations narrowed the location at the time to Beach Access Gate 210, approximately one kilometre south of the Point Cartwright Reserve and the La Balsa Park area, but RSPCA inspectors said it was unlikely they would ever be able to definitely identify the source.

A Sunshine Coast Council spokesman said they were encouraging dog owners to remain vigilant and keep their dogs in sight at all times while in off leash areas.

“Ensure their dog is responsive to voice commands before letting them off leash so they can be called away from unknown food sources and contact their vet at the first sign of any symptoms such as gastro, breathlessness or being listless,” he said.

Originally published as Two dogs die as poisonings return to popular coastal walking spot