QLD dog deaths: Urgent warning issued after dogs die after visiting beaches on Sunshine Coast

Pet owners are on high alert after a spate of mysterious dog deaths at several popular beaches, sparking warnings from local vets and authorities.

Experts suspect poisonings have claimed the lives of at least five dogs in recent days while many others have been rushed to vet hospitals requiring lifesaving treatment on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.

All dogs had visited either Buddina Beach or surrounding beaches Minyama, Point Cartwright and La Balsa prior to falling ill.

The RSPCA has declared the matter as a ‘current priority investigation’ and is working in partnership with Queensland Police and the local council.

North Coast Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care has issued a public warning for dog owners to ‘use caution’ when visiting identified areas with their furry friends and to keep a vigilant eye to ensure they don’t drink or eat anything of which the origins are unknown.

‘We unfortunately have had a series of patients presenting with alike symptoms that may suggest a toxicity by ingestion,’ the clinic posted.

‘Although we are unable to confirm the cause of these presentations the link to these patients is the area that they have walked within the 12 hours prior.

‘Symptoms to look out for are gastrointestinal upsets, lethargy, or any change to your pets behaviour.’

‘We have chosen to err on the side of caution and have made local authorities aware.’

A doggie day care centre also issued a similar warning as it expressed heartbreak over the death of Billy the beagle – one of it’s much-loved clients. 

‘Our heart is broken. Our beautiful boy Billy seems to have been a victim of poisoning,’ Doggie Adventure Playhouse wrote.

‘Dogs are our hearts, our love, our companions and faithful cuddle buddies. 

‘Our loving thoughts and cuddles go out to Billy’s beautiful and heartbroken parents.’

Billy’s owners, Val and Peter Logan, told the ABC they took Billy for a walk to the beach and he returned home ‘quite happily’.

Half-an-hour after bringing him back, the two-year-old pup began to vomit incessantly to the point Mr and Mrs Logan had to rush him to the emergency vet.

Billy died later that evening. 

Silver Lining Pet Rescue Inc announced on Wednesday one of its rescue dogs Sophie died after a suspected poisoning incident at Buddina beach.

The owner was reportedly was ‘absolutely heartbroken’ by the tragic loss.

He, like Mr and Mrs Logan, had taken his dog for a walk on the beach on Friday afternoon. 

But Sophie became severely ill at night and died. 

The RSPCA confirmed its investigating with assistance of police and the local council.

‘The focus of investigation is to attempt to locate cause of recent spate of poisoning on the Sunshine Coast to determine if origin was intentional, accidental or environmental,’ a spokeswoman told Daily Mail Australia.

‘Anyone who suspects their dog may have ingested something toxic are encouraged to seek immediate veterinary treatment.

‘We’re urging all dog walkers to remain vigilant and keep an eye on their pet so they don’t drink or eat anything of which the origins are unknown. 

Dog owners who suspect their pet may have ingested something toxic are urged to report it to RSPCA on 1300 ANIMAL or police