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There are a multitude of dangers in the garden. At the ANIMAL EMERGENCY CENTRE, we treat many pets affected by garden toxins, and among the deadliest of these are the small green or blue pellets we sprinkle in flower and vegetable beds to prevent slug and snail damage. If the active ingredient of the slug and snail pellets in your garden shed is METALDEHYDE, be aware that you have a potentially lethal substance on your hands.

Catherine asked me to share the tale of her dog, Rosie, and warn other pet owners how dangerous slug and snail bait can be. Rosie is a big dog, but after consuming just half a box of metaldehyde she rapidly developed life-threatening seizures and was left fighting for her life at the ANIMAL EMERGENCY CENTRE hospital. Catherine, unaware of the potentially deadly effects of slug pellets, had left a box of metaldehyde on the outdoor table. Early one morning Rosie helped herself. The toxin acts very quickly, so when Rosie was found hiding away two hours later, she was already drooling, panting, trembling and unable to walk. Catherine came immediately to the ANIMAL EMERGENCY CENTRE, and shortly after they arrived Rosie began to have seizures.

There is no antidote for metaldehyde poisoning, and many animals die despite intensive treatment. After decontaminating the patient by inducing vomiting, flushing the stomach, or performing an enema, we support them until the toxic effect wears off. Rosie remained under anaesthetic in an ‘induced coma’ for nearly 24 hours before the seizures stopped, and in the end she thankfully made a full recovery.

If you must use metaldehyde, use only tiny sprinkles in fenced areas, away from pets. Better still use Quash, a safer product. Store all pesticide boxes in locked cupboards, away from children and pets.