Dog warning over deadly beach waste
Pets warned to stay off shore over palm oil fears
Dog walkers have been warned to stay off the sand at Prestwick beach after potentially lethal debris washed up.
Community leaders branded the beach the “worst in the west of Scotland” earlier this year – now the latest shore storm will bruise the once- proud reputation of the seafront even further.
A Facebook post warning pet owners about the danger that it poses has been shared around the world.
And Jim Ronney, chair of Prestwick North Community Council, says the latest shock to hit the shore is sadly symptomatic of problems at the beach.
He said: “For about eight years now we’ve been complaining about this beach. The suggestion is that this palm oil is coming from ships but we don’t know for sure yet.
“Prestwick beach is a disaster. South Ayrshire Council say they have an obligation to look after it – they’ve failed at that.”
Paw Paw Chow Chow Pet Supplies, on the town’s Main Street, shared an urgent warning to their Facebook page after palm oil was spotted on the sands.
They said: “Palm oil is a byproduct of food manufacture that gets deposited into the ocean. As it congeals and hardens, it can seal in nasty bacteria and toxic substances.
“Unfortunately, dogs are highly attracted to palm oil, and can get the scent of a small piece from a great distance.
“They think nothing of wolfing down whatever they can get their paws on, and will usually ignore their owners’ pleas to drop it. Ingested palm oil deposits can cause great pain, toxic poisoning, and even death.”
Prestwick beach has proved controversial in recent years, as community leaders back efforts to clear the beach of various debris that they say has spoiled what was once the gem of the town.
The pet store added: “The interest in the issue seems massive! It’s brought about a few conversations on the other rubbish and debris that washes up and hangs around on that stretch of the beach.”
The substance – which often appears as white or yellow waxy lumps of varying size – can be fatal if eaten by dogs. Council chiefs recommend that dogs are kept on the lead on the beach, or off the sand altogether.
South Ayrshire Council’s neighbourhood services boss Mike Newall said: “We’re aware that Palm Oil has been washing up at different locations and we’re removing it.
“Where we are aware of the issue, signage is in place to warn dog owners of the risk to their pet from eating it.
“We’d also advise pet owners to keep their dogs under control to minimise the risk.”
If you suspect that your pet has come into contact with palm oil, contact a vet straight away.