Reports of poisoning grow as Crufts owners wait for tests
THE OWNERS of an Irish setter which died after competing in the Crufts dog show will have to wait until next week for results of toxicology tests as reports emerge of other possible poisonings.
The owners of Jagger claimed their dog had died after showing at Crufts, having apparently been fed poisoned chunks of steak, and vets are now carrying out tests.
It has since been suggested a shih tzu competitor also died and that six dogs in all may have been poisoned.
In a statement, a Crufts spokeswoman said: “The Kennel Club has received no details about the shih tzu who has allegedly died and whose identity remains unknown and we can confirm that no shih tzus were seen by the show vet at Crufts.
“We cannot look into claims about which we have no direct information, which is why it es- sential that people come forward with any concerns.”
The Kennel Club had earlier said it was aware of reports several other dogs – including a shih tzu – together with a West Highland white terrier and an Afghan hound had also fallen ill after this year’s show.
A spokeswoman said reports of incidents involving more dogs were “rumours” and there were many reasons why they may become sick.
She added: “As with any international competition, rumours of sabotage do occasionally surface. This of course is not in the spirit of competition and will not be tolerated.
“Anyone caught attempting to deliberately sabotage another competitor’s performance, particularly if a dog’s welfare is put at risk, will face severe disciplinary action, which could include a ban on competing at all Kennel Clublicensed events.
“Furthermore, anyone who puts a dog’s welfare at risk could face prosecution under the Animal Welfare Act.”
No vets have raised concerns about poisoning and there have been no official complaints from any other owners at Crufts, she added.