Mystery park substance leaves dogs ill

Three dogs have been left seriously ill after ingesting a mystery substance in a Dundee park. Authorities are monitoring Magdalen Green in the city’s West End after the canines were rushed to the vets.

Each appears to have been in the area around the railway line at the footbridge to the western side of the popular walking spot.

The incidents are not believed to be criminal, however, both Police Scotland and Dundee City Council are treating the poisonings seriously.

Area councillor Fraser Macpherson said the dogs appear to have eaten something within litter, with the first known case on Friday January 15.

He said: “I spoke with one woman whose dog was really ill so it has been very difficult for the owners affected.

“Luckily the dog is home now and recovering.

“As far as I’m aware, no dog has died but they have been seriously affected so it’s very concerning.

“I asked the council’s environmental services team to do a deep clean and, to their credit, this was done very, very, promptly.

“I have also spoken with the community policing team for Lochee and the West End so they are aware.”

Mr Macpherson was also keen to stress the poisonings are not related to the disease of rabbits at the nearby Riverside Nature Park.

Various locals had raised concerns the issue may have been more widespread but the disease circulating is known as myxomatosis.

It can be fatal in rabbits but does not affect humans or pets such as dogs or cats.

The West End councillor added: “I want to clarify to people who have been worried it is the same issue, it’s not.

“But I’m really keen to get the message out there to dog owners to keep a watchful eye in that area at Magdalen Green.

“We don’t want anyone else’s dog falling ill.

“Make sure they don’t scavenge, so to speak, in any rubbish there.”

A Police Scotland spokesman said: “We are aware of the matter and liaising with the local authority.

“Officers will give the area passing attention.”

“Keep

a watchful eye in that area at Magdalen Green