Dog dies after ingesting dangerous substance on Hayling Island beach as pollution warning issued
A dog died after it is thought to have ingested a dangerous substance on a Hayling Island beach as a warning is issued over pollution.
Havant Borough Council said it received a report from the Environment Agency on the night of Tuesday 11 November of suspected vegetable oil pollution on beaches.
Then on Wednesday, 12 November, the council’s duty pollution officer attended the site and carried out an inspection of the foreshore at Ferry Point before also finding what appeared to be sewage-related fat masses on the beach.
A council statement said: “The beach was cleared by Thursday by NORSE operatives who are continuing to carry out regular inspections so that any further pollution incidents can be dealt with.
“We are aware of a report from a dog walker that their pet died after potentially ingesting some of the matter on the beach. We will continue to monitor the beach, however, during high tides and after rain especially, we would advise dog walkers to exercise vigilance, especially if their dog is off-lead, as pollutants can be dangerous and potentially fatal to their pets.
“Palm oil in particular poses a significant risk to dogs. Palm oil can look like white, yellow or orange waxy lumps, and can give off a diesel-like smell. If you believe your pet may have ingested palm oil, seek urgent advice from a vet.”
You can report pollution either to the Environment Agency’s 24-hour incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60, or to Havant Borough Council on 023 9244 6019.