Snohomish County Parks & Recreation issued a warning Sunday about reports of dog poisonings at off-leash dog areas and at private homes. At least one dog died.
Snohomish County has off-leash areas at Willis Tucker County Park, Tambark Creek Park, Cavelero County Park and Lake Stickney County Park.
A dog died after visiting Willis Tucker Park off-leash area on Thanksgiving Day.
Two other incidents were reported at two private yards in Marysville and one incident at a private yard in Lake Stevens.
On Jan. 13, park ranger staff spoke with the head veterinarian at the Animal Hospital at Murphy's Corner and was told that the three sick dogs had recently visited Willis Tucker Park Off Leash Dog Area. The veterinarian told the ranger that they had received three phone calls on Saturday, Jan. 9 regarding sick dogs with foaming white gums.
Officials say they don't have any credible information about dog poisonings at other county parks.
Officials are encouraging pet owners to remain vigilant and to keep visual contact with their dogs at all times.
If you see something suspicious call 425-388-6600 or e-mail SCParksRec@gmail.com
Dogs that ingest poison may experience gastrointestinal symptoms, such as a lack of appetite or excessive drooling, and symptoms of internal bleeding, such as a rapid heartbeat or coughing up blood. Kidney and liver failure is common, and symptoms include decreased urination, bad breath, jaundice or yellow gums, black stool and changes in behavior, vomiting, tremors and seizures, rapid heartbeat and diarrhea. Kidney damage is the leading cause of death in dogs that ingest antifreeze. Common symptoms of the ingestion of rat poison in dogs include loss of appetite, paralysis in the back legs, impaired movement and muscle tremors, states PetMD. Immediate treatment increases dog's chances for survival.
