Warning issued in Derby park after dog dies from suspected poison
Councillors in Spondon are investigating reports about dogs possibly being poisoned on fields next to Dale Road Park
Last updated 9th Jul 2024
A warning has been issued to pet owners after a dog died from suspected poison and others have reportedly become unwell after walks at or close to a Derby park.
Worried councillors in Spondon are investigating reports about dogs possibly being poisoned on fields next to Dale Road Park or at the park itself.
But Derby City Council says nothing in the park itself has been found which may be harmful.
The councillors released a statement on the Spondon Councillors Facebook page to say one dog had died “through toxicity” which is “possibly linked” to Dale Road Park.
The statement added that councillors had received other reports of dogs feeling unwell after visits to the Spondon park.
A further update posted yesterday (8th July) by councillors said a dog died following an incident that happened “on the field adjacent to the park”.
Pet owners have been advised to keep their dogs on leads when visiting the park and the surrounding area while an investigation gets under way to find the potential poison.
Since the warning was published numerous posters have been put up around the park warning dog owners.
The initial statement said: “It has come to our attention of some very sad news that a local resident has lost a dog through toxicity, which is possibly linked to Dale Road Park. Other dogs have also been reported being unwell after visiting the park.
“Whilst we try to make contact with our parks team (Derby City Council), we strongly advise to keep all dogs on leads, in particular if your dog is prone to scavenging and eating any objects that are on the park.
“We are very sad to hear this news that one of our four-legged friends has lost their life and we hope to be able to trace what this toxicity is or if it’s intentional. Our condolences to the family who have lost their dog.”
The Facebook post attracted dozens of comments from social media users who wanted to share the warning with friends and family.
Spondon councillors have rejected one comment that the possible poison may be weed killer, with them stating weed killer or other chemicals are not sprayed on the park.
They have also refuted suggestions the poison is linked to the mysterious smell in the Spondon area which councillors recently revealed was part of another investigation.
Councillor Hardyal Dhindsa, Derby City Council cabinet member for communities and Streetpride, said: “We’ve been made aware of the sad death of a dog following a walk on fields next to Dale Road Park in Spondon. While this happened outside the park, our rangers and officers responded to concerns and checked the park for evidence of anything that could be harmful. Nothing was found.
“I’d encourage anyone with any further concerns about this to contact us.”