BASS Coast Shire Council has moved quickly to tackle the threat of poison dog baits at Blue Gum Reserve off-leash dog park in Cowes.
Following the death of a much loved regular at the park after ingesting rat poison signs have now been erected in the area warning of the danger of poison baits.
‘Please be aware baits have been found in this area.’
‘Take extreme care while walking your dogs.’
‘See something say something, please contact Bass Coast Shire 5671 2211 or Police.’
Local dog owners at first kept their dogs away from the park but according to the President of the Phillip Island Dog Owners Association Cheryl Owens the dogs and their owners are slowly starting to return.
“Initially the number of people using the park dropped off, but we’re encouraging them to go back, and keep a close watch on their dogs,” said Cheryl.
Ms Owens said the baiting incident at the park was of massive concern.
“Watch your dog, keep your eye on it.”
“It would be a real pity if the only dog park on Phillip Island is not used,” said Cheryl.
Dog owner Roger a regular at the park with his dog Rex said it had to be of concern.
“Dogs moving around, you don’t know what they find or sniff.”
“In the off-leash area no-one gives you any problems, but you have to be careful and keep the area clean.”
Jen with her dog Belle is also a regular at the park.
“We’re concerned about the bait,” said Jen.
“You have to watch the dogs in the bushes,” she said.
“We come to the park because it is an off-leash area.
“I love the time with the dog.
“It is an important part of her socialising and being able to run free.”
Cooper and Sonny have been coming to the park with their owner Jenny for eleven and a half years.
“We have to keep an eye on the dogs to make sure they don’t run off into the bushes,” said Jenny.
Not sure if the baiting was deliberately targeted at dogs Jenny said wildlife in the area such as possums had also been found dead.
“We love this place and the dogs love it.
“They have a wonderful time here.
“Cooper knows the other dogs and they play well together.”
Retrieving the protective cover of his microphone from playful Cooper’ s mouth, radio reporter Jack Colantuono covering the story for ABC Gippsland could only agree.
Bass Shire’s Open Space team has mowed the area to keep the grass short and provide a clear line of sight for people walking their dogs in the park.
Community Safety Officers have also been walking the area to reassure dog owners.
No additional baits have been located but Bass Coast Shire Council arranged for temporary cautionary signage to be installed during the school holidays.
Council encourages anyone who may have any information on the poison bait incident to report it directly to Council and/or Victoria Police so the matter can be properly investigated.
Thanking Bass Coast Shire for their work in the area Cheryl Owens asked dog owners to remain extra vigilant when walking their dog and to keep a look out for baits.
Signs of poisoning can include lethargy, swollen tummy, white gums, pale to white sdera (white part of the eye), black stools, bleeding from the gums, coughing with or without blood, difficulty breathing but eating and drinking as normal for a number of days.
If poisoning is suspected seek veterinary advice immediately.