Three dogs have died and two others fell ill following suspected poisoning incidents across two streets in Carnarvon, Western Australia, prompting urgent warnings for local pet owners to keep their animals closely supervised and away from unknown substances.
The Shire of Carnarvon confirmed on August 24 that five dogs across the Morgantown and Brockman areas had become sick, with two affected on Skipworth Street and three on Morgan Way. Of those five animals, three did not survive.
What Authorities Are Saying About the Carnarvon Dog Poisoning
Shire executive manager Stefan Louw described the incidents as "deeply concerning", saying the local government had passed relevant information to both the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and the RSPCA to assist with investigations.
The RSPCA confirmed it is actively investigating the matter but said it could not comment further while inquiries are ongoing.
"Our thoughts are with the affected dogs and their owners," Mr Louw said, adding that the shire would not speculate beyond what was already known while the investigation continued.
Mr Louw urged residents to take immediate precautions: keep dogs leashed and supervised when outside, and stop them from eating or sniffing unknown food or substances. Anyone who believes their dog may have been poisoned is urged to seek emergency veterinary care without delay, and to report suspicious behaviour or potential evidence to WA Police or the RSPCA.
Vet Clinic Raises Alarm Over Possible Malicious Poisoning
Carnarvon's Coral Coast Veterinary Hospital also raised the alarm publicly, stating it had treated three dogs from three separate households within a 48-hour window — all presenting with identical symptoms consistent with organophosphate poisoning.
"Sadly, we have reason to suspect there may be malicious poisoning of dogs in this area," the clinic said, noting that samples had been sent away for laboratory analysis.
The clinic outlined a list of warning signs pet owners should watch for, including:
- Hypersalivation, drooling or foaming at the mouth
- Constricted pupils
- Muscle tremors or shaking
- Unsteady movement or wobbling when walking
- Runny, yellow diarrhoea with mucus
- Elevated body temperature (hyperthermia)
The hospital advised that if owners suspect their dog has been exposed to a toxic substance, they should wash the animal with standard dishwashing liquid — the same used for washing dishes — as this can help reduce further absorption of the poison through the skin. This should only be done if it is safe to do so, and veterinary attention should be sought immediately regardless.
What Pet Owners Should Do Now
Both the Shire and the veterinary clinic are urging the Carnarvon community to remain on high alert. Any suspicious activity — including unfamiliar food scraps or substances found near properties — should be reported to WA Police or the RSPCA promptly.
Investigations by the RSPCA and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development are continuing, with no further details expected from the Shire until findings are available.
Pet owners across Carnarvon are encouraged to act swiftly if they notice any of the above symptoms in their animals, as organophosphate poisoning can progress rapidly and prove fatal without urgent treatment.
