Typical kinds of poisoned bait:

• Meat balls studded with sharp objects such as razor blades and shards of glass
• Meat balls containing rat poison
• Slug pellets

Typical places where poisoned bait is hidden:

• Thick bushes
• Dog exercising areas
• Footpaths edged with lawns

How can I protect my dog from poisoned bait?

• Pay attention to warnings about poisoned bait (e.g. information on notice boards, distributed via social media groups or warning apps) and avoid these areas
• Distract your dog if he or she sniffs an 'interesting' scent
• Be proactive and keep your dog well occupied
• Have food with you so that your dog does not start foraging
• Train your dog not to eat any available food
• Where necessary, use a muzzle

Symptoms that indicate dog poisoning: 

• Nausea, diarrhoea, respiratory dysfunction, pale mucous membrane in the throat area
• Intense salivation, a swaying gait, staggering, respiratory failure, cramps
• A fast heartbeat, cardiac arrest, signs of paralysis
• Vomiting, unconsciousness, excessive panting

Emergency measures:

• Distance your dog from the poisoned bait
• Do not stimulate vomiting if you do not know what your dog has eaten (caustic poisons burn the throat; sharp objects cause injuries)
• Record what, how much and when something was eaten
• Call your vet, report your suspicion and describe the symptoms (this will give the vet the opportunity to prepare an antidote already)
• Get to the vet as fast as possible
• If possible, take a sample of the poisoned bait with you

Additional measures:

• Each dog owner should complete a canine first-aid course in order to be able to help their four-legged friend in an emergency
• We recommend taking part in workshops dealing with the topic of poisoned bait
• Dog owners should always have the number of a mobile veterinary practice at hand. Your vet will be able to inform you about the nearest animal clinic, or check the Internet