Warning for farmers
A North Canterbury vet is warning farmers to exercise vigilance when storing and using calf rearing milk, calf meal and chick crumb after the accidental poisoning of a working dog.
Rangiora Vet Centre director Ben Davidson said the farm dog, named Fi, was given calf milk replacer as a treat for working hard and to add some body condition.
Davidson said the farmer had given her milk replacer before, without any ill effects, but on this occasion she was given an alternative brand that contained coccidiostats.
Coccidiostats are antiparasitic medications found in some products that are toxic to dogs and potentially humans.
They are given to young chicks and calves to ensure they gain weight, maintain condition and prevent coccidiosis, which can lead to poor health, ill thrift, reduced weight gain, and in some cases death.
When used with the intended species and at the appropriate dose, Davidson said coccidiostats were safe to use. However, they were highly toxic and often fatal if consumed by dogs, cats, horses, sheep and goats, or other unintended species.
‘‘The dog had collapsed, [was] barely responsive, unable to stand, with altered behaviour and nerve function within a few hours of drinking the milk,’’ said Davidsond.
‘‘Working with the farmer, we were able to determine the only thing she had had different to the other dogs on the property was the new milk replacer.’’
Fi was hospitalised for four days and received around-theclock care.
Davidson said Fi was lucky to have survived, however some neurological changes may be permanent, or could take up to two months to resolve once the drug had cleared from her system.
An ultrasound scan of her heart was also clear, which Davidson said was a relief for the team supporting her, as the drugs could cause permanent damage to the heart muscle.
‘‘There is no known antidote – only supportive care, and reducing absorption if any has been consumed.’’
Davidson said the incident served as reminder to always check packaging for additives and only use products for the intended species. There should always be a safety warning somewhere on the product, he said.
Residue could remain in containers and washing them may not remove contamination, so it was recommended to keep separate equipment for products containing coccidiostats.
‘‘In the event of accidental ingestion for a working animal or pet, please contact your veterinary team immediately for advice and treatment.
‘‘In the event of accidental self ingestion, please contact your doctor or emergency room immediately.’’