The recent discovery of a poisoned sausage on Rua de Costa Cabral in Porto has raised concerns among pet owners in the city. At least two dogs have fallen victim to this act, with one confirmed dead.
Such incidents are reportedly not isolated. According to the clinical director of the Veterinary Hospital Montenegro in Santos Pousada, Porto, cases of poisoning this summer have exceeded the usual numbers. “The number of intoxications has been higher this year,” stated Luís Montenegro, noting that the type of poison remains unidentified.
Animals often display symptoms “similar to gastroenteritis,” Montenegro explained, emphasizing that the severity of the clinical situation depends on the “amount of toxicity ingested” and the speed of intervention.
Montenegro recounted one of the worst cases encountered this year, which occurred last Monday. A dog in a “pre-coma” state was admitted to the Veterinary Hospital Montenegro, with an assessment indicating “poisoning.” “Despite immediate gastric lavage, all efforts to save the animal failed, and it suffered multiple cardiorespiratory arrests, dying within three hours,” he recounted.
Two days later, on Wednesday, August 20, another dog was brought in with suspected poisoning. The owner witnessed the ingestion of “sausages with a toxic substance,” photographed them, and rushed the animal to the vet, where “vomiting was induced,” followed by a “gastric lavage.”
This dog is stable but remains hospitalized.
Luís Montenegro confirmed that Porto’s Municipal Police are aware of the situation, and the owner of the deceased dog has filed a complaint with the Public Prosecution Service’s Investigation and Criminal Action Department (DIAP) of Porto.
The Public Security Police (PSP) told Notícias ao Minuto that no official complaints have been registered by them so far.
The photograph taken by the owner of the dog admitted on Wednesday has gone viral, being widely shared by groups, individuals, and influencers alike. The Miacis Association for Animal Protection and Integration posted about the incident on social networks.
“Attention, friends in Porto! Poisoned sausages were found on Rua Costa Cabral, Porto. The poison is deadly even in a dose equal to a teaspoon! We cannot describe the evil of those capable of this… Be extra cautious! If walking your pets in this area, be vigilant and use muzzles if necessary, to prevent your dog from eating anything. It only takes a moment of distraction. If you find more poisoned food, don’t look away, report it to the authorities. We must find the perpetrator! Share! It’s urgent to spread this information to those living nearby,” they urged.
Veterinarian Luís Montenegro shared some advice to prevent further tragedies. “Firstly, always stay alert for any potential street contaminants or poisoned substances. If you suspect poisoning, remove the suspected substance and deliver it to the police to prevent further risks,” he advised.
Moreover, if there are suspicions of poisoning or if the animal shows symptoms, owners should immediately take them to the vet, as this can mean the “difference between life and death.”
