SA Sees Growing Trend Of Robbers Poisoning Pets Before Striking

More and more animals are being poisoned with illegally obtained poisons in South Africa, says the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA).

The NSPCA says poisoning is arguably the most cruel and inhumane way to kill an animal. Aldicarb (also known as two-step or Temik) is the most common poison used on dogs.

It’s easy for people to buy illegal poisons, or even rat poison from a shop. Criminals use various methods to poison pets, and Aldicarb is incredibly fast-acting.

Here are a few things you can do:

• Be vigilant; look out for pieces of food lying around your yard, as criminals will often try to poison dogs before breaking in
• Aldicarb is easily identifiable; small black grains, almost like poppy seeds. Handle with gloves, and take it with you to the vet for proper identification
• Keep some activated charcoal around the house and administer it to your dog as it slows down the absorption rate of the poison
• Keep your pet warm with a blanket
• Get to your vet as fast as you can, with any evidence you feel you may have gathered. Again, do not touch it directly; it may be as poisonous to you as to your dog

Dr Rudolph Zinn from UNISA’s School of Criminal Justice conducted in-depth interviews with convicted robbers. His findings include the fact that small dogs sleeping inside is the greatest deterrent to a break-in. And it certainly keeps your companions safe from harm at night. You can purchase his e-book, ‘Home Invasion,’ here.

To find out more, click the link below and read the entire article.