My dog ate a 1080 bait — what do I do?
If your dog has eaten a 1080 bait, take your dog to the nearest vet clinic as an emergency. Call ahead to let them know you are on your way so they can be prepared for your arrival. 1080 can be fatal in as little as 10-15 minutes, so veterinary care must be obtained as quickly as possible.
1080 baits are often used in National Parks, State Forrestry, and other areas where feral cats and foxes are a problem. Regular baiting locations can be found on the DBCA website, though it should be noted that baiting may occur in areas not shown on the map. https://www.dbca.wa.gov.au/management/threat-management/invasive-animals/western-shield/western-shield-fox-and-feral-cat-baiting-locations
1080 is such a dangerous and rapidly fatal poison that avoiding exposure to it is really the only way to keep your pet safe. Do not take your dog into National Parks (they are not allowed in National Parks in Western Australia). In areas where baits may be found, keep your dog on a lead, and consider using a basket muzzle (so they can pant and drink but not eat anything). Keep an eye out for signs that baiting is occuring in an area and keep your dog away from these areas.
1080 poisoning is rapidly progressive. Early signs can be frantic behaviour, vomiting, diarrhoea, or muscle twitches. This can rapidly progress to seizures and death. Do not attempt home remedies and do not put your hands into the dogs mouth to move the tongue – they may bite down very hard causing severe injury.
For times when the vet clinic is closed, call their normal number and follow their advice on how to obtain emergency care.
