What to do if you suspect a pet has ingested 1080 poison

1080 poison is used in every Australian state and territory. It is regulated by a wide array of government departments and agencies and is the subject of many laws and regulations.

Though there is no known antidote to 1080 poisoning, there are rare cases in which a victim has survived. This guide will help you if you suspect that a pet has ingested 1080 or died of 1080 poisoning.

What do I do?

1. If you suspect that your pet has ingested poison do not wait to see the symptoms listed below. Contact your nearest vet immediately. If possible, call in advance.

2. Do not allow any other pets or children to interact with the animal you suspect has been poisoned.

3. Monitor any vomiting and remove it urgently as it may pose a secondary threat to other animals or people. Do not induce vomiting unless advised to do so by a veterinarian. If your pet vomits, wear gloves and thoroughly wash or burn all clothes worn during cleaning afterwards.

If there will be a delay in getting your pet to a clinic, you can call the Animal Poisons Centre for advice.

Symptoms of 1080 poisoning

The symptoms of 1080 poisoning are well known and your vet will be aware of what to look for. These are the most commonly identified symptoms exhibited by victims of 1080 poisoning:

  • Anxiety

  • Frenzied behaviour

  • Hypersensitivity

  • Failure to respond to your calls

  • Vomiting

  • Uncontrollable urination or defecation

  • Convulsions, fitting or seizures

  • Haemorrhaging or bleeding

  • Difficulty breathing

What to do if you suspect a pet has died by 1080 poisoning

Unfortunately, there is often nothing that can prevent a pet from dying to 1080 poison after they have ingested 1080 poison. All states and territories, however, are obliged to receive reports of “non-target” deaths.

The Coalition is here to help. You can reach out at any time for support and advice. The contact details of the relevant department or authority in your state is provided below with supporting documents.

National

  • It is important to register any ‘non-target animal deaths’ to 1080 poison to the Australian Pesticide and Veterinary Medicine Authority.

    This can be done online using this link.

    You can also use the following details:

    Adverse Experience Reporting Program
    Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority
    PO Box 6182
    Kingston ACT 2604
    Australia

    Email: aerp@apvma.gov.au
    Fax: +61 2 6210 4776