Poisoning dogs cruel, inhumane

[IceyBlueSibes]

Editor - The Caymanian Compass

Once in a while we hear about animals being poisoned in the Cayman Islands.
It’s happening again.

The Humane Society is warning that at least two dogs have been poisoned with the chemical Paraquat. Both died.

Any human who would poison an animal for any reason is stupid and if caught, should be punished to the fullest extent of the law.

We’re sure there is a special place for those who harm animals in the afterlife, and we bet it’s not in heaven.

Poisoning an animal is sick, cruel and illegal in the Cayman Islands.

If you own a dog, please make sure you know of its whereabouts constantly and that you keep it safe and secure.

Dogs left to roam the streets are in immediate danger and most likely to suffer from poisonings, accidents and abuse.

If you have a problem with a dog in your neighbourhood or with strays, take action by calling the Cayman Islands Humane Society for the Department of Agriculture.

Pets in many families are akin to children, especially for the elderly.

To poison someone’s pet because they ventured on your property or you think they barked too loud is beyond our imagination.

Paraquat is an extremely toxic chemical and when ingested, liquefies vital organs.

Dying from the poisoning is slow and agonizingly painful.

Poisoning an animal is taking the concept of cruel and unusual punishment to the ultimate.

The symptoms of poisoning include persistent vomiting and diarrhoea often accompanied by difficulty breathing and restlessness. If your dog displays these signs or you suspect your dog may have ingested a poisonous substance please take your dog to a veterinarian clinic immediately.

On the subject of poisoning, there are many things around us during Christmas holiday season that can be harmful to pets.

Keep your pets away from aluminium foil and away from electrical cords, which can be fatal if chewed.

As we scarf down ham, turkey and beef, we may be tempted to give Fido the bones. Don’t. They can be a hazard if ingested.

Chocolate is highly toxic to dogs as are some Christmas plants like mistletoe.
It is our sincere hope that the person or people who purposefully poisoned the dogs are caught and prosecuted.

Keep an eye on your pet this Christmas season and keep them safe.

Don’t contribute to the injury or death of your pet this season by neglect.