(DATE: 2015-08-26) CSSN has recently received a tragic, heartbreaking report from cruisers who lost their dog in a fatal poisoning incident near Tyrell Bay, Carriacou. Local customs on many islands include baiting unwanted or nuisance animals with agricultural chemicals used incorrectly or “off label” that can be highly toxic/lethal to any animal (including humans) that ingests, or in some cases simply inhales them. It is believed that 2 different chemicals were involved in this instance, and also in other anecdotal cases.
The owners suggest that those who take their dogs ashore keep them on short leash until you are able to gain local knowledge from dog friendly locals about he purported safety of an area (officials may be reluctant to advise you of local practices, or may simply not be aware when or where specific poison baits are laid) and be familiar with the closest emergency veterinary assistance should your dog display any symptoms of poisoning (seizures, excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.) In some cases immediate veterinary assistance may prevent death, but in other cases, no reliable antidote or treatment is available. Quick administration of an activated charcoal solution followed by an emetic might provide enough time to reach professional assistance, but it is unlikely most cruisers will have or carry these items when taking their dogs ashore.
Be cautious until you understand the risks of your pet encountering this often invisible, indiscriminate hazard in any area ashore.
Further details about this incident can be found at:
http://www.noonsite.com/Countries/StVincenttheGrenadines/warning-if-cruising-the-caribbean-with-pets