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Dog poisoning with criminal intent, is unfortunately a common occurrence in South Africa.

In the most cases of dog poisoning, a product with the street name of “TWO-STEP” is being used, commercially known as “Temik” with the active ingredient being Aldicarb.

Two-step is an organophosphate and when ingested causes failure of the nervous system and if left untreated can lead to a very traumatic death. Aldicarb effects the muscles including the ability to breathe, heartbeat and intestines.

Two-step is normally a black dark grey granular substance (½mm in diameter) resembling poppy seeds or gunpowder and is placed in meat or bread and thrown over the perimeter walls into the premises.
Multiple pieces of bait are normally used.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Two-Step poisoning can show it in 5 minutes hence the name “Two-Step” and includes some or more of the following:

• Weakness/paralysis
• Nausea/vomiting
• Salivation
• Seizures
• Urination
• and pupil constriction

Remember the parachute principle: make sure you have it, before you need it. A complete pre-packed dog poison kits are available from SOG offices – (office hours – 011 907 4145, All hours – 0822 911 911)

Personal Safety

• Avoid contact with saliva body fluids or other expressions
• Where gloves
• Your dog is in distress and might show signs of aggression, be careful
• Do not put your fingers inside the dog’s mouth as it may bite

Immediate Treatment

• Administer activated charcoal to slow down the absorbtion (available from chemist/vet)
• Administer a laxative (available from your vet or most supermarkets)
• Keep the animal warm with a light blanket
• Check your yard thoroughly for more pieces of poison
• Get your pet to the vet immediately, many dogs die within 20 minutes

At the Vet

The vet will have minister a scheduled drug normally atrophying to reverse the damage caused by the poison put on a drip and keep it for a day or so for observation depending on the severity of the poisoning.

Image source: Roodepoort Record