Poison suspected of killing four dogs at Big Wave Bay, Shek O
Vet calls for ban on paraquat after animals that died showed symptoms linked to the herbicide, with indications that bones were used as bait
Dog owners are being warned to be on their guard after the deaths of up to four dogs from suspected poisoning at Big Wave Bay in Shek O.
The animals died within days of one another after displaying identical symptoms associated with poisoning from the highly toxic herbicide paraquat.
It is commonly used as a weedkiller in Hong Kong but was banned in Europe in 2007. One owner found bones tinged greenish blue close to the area where the dogs lived and were walked, a veterinarian said, indicating a deliberate attempt to lure the animals using poison-laced bait.
The bones were handed to the police, who are investigating.
Veterinary surgeon Dr Chris Dixon, who treated two of the dogs, urged the government to ban paraquat, for which there is no antidote.
"All the symptoms are associated with poisoning by paraquat, which is easily available in Hong Kong," Dixon said. "It's a cruel poison that causes a horrible death for wildlife, which is why it has been banned in Europe.
"Long-term studies have also shown it poses health risks to agricultural workers and linked it to Parkinson's disease. There is no place for paraquat in Hong Kong."