Kent lake tested for contamination after dogs die
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Version 0 of 1. An investigation has been launched after three dogs died and up to seven more became ill after drinking from a lake. Kent police have cordoned off parts of Brooklands Lake, near Powder Mill Lane in Dartford, after a dog walker said that three of her animals became ill and died. Vets are still working to save the life of a fourth dog which was also on the walk. Parkvets veterinary hospital in Footscray, Sidcup, said it knew of a total of 10 dogs which had been affected. A spokesman, who could not give more details, said the surviving dogs were being kept under observation. A message on the hospital’s Facebook page also warned: “A possible toxic substance has contaminated Brooklands Lake, Dartford. We strongly advise to not allow your pet to swim in or drink the water.” Dartford borough council said that parts of the lakes and footpaths had been closed while the water was tested for potential contamination. A spokesman said: “The testing is taking place following reports of dogs being taken ill in the area. “The Environment Agency has taken water samples. It is likely that parts of the lake will be closed to pedestrians and dog walkers until the results are known. “Please take note of the warning signs around the lake and do not allow your dog to enter the water.” Kent police, who are working with the Environment Agency, said that “as yet the cause of the animals’ illness is not known and it has not been confirmed if they were contaminated by anything in the lake”. A spokesman said: “It is believed they [the dogs] got into the lake and drank from it. They came out and started fitting. Shortly after that three of them died and vets are attempting to resuscitate the other one.” The spot has a public footpath and the area is popular with walkers and dog walkers. The warning was issued after police were alerted by the vet at 11.30am. The RSPCA advised people who were concerned their pet might have been poisoned to contact their vet immediately. Signs that an animal has been poisoned vary. A wide range of symptoms to look out for include depression, lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, breathing difficulties, appearing drunk and uncoordinated and also twitching or seizures, according to the RSPCA. |