Two dogs die and third seriously ill after eating 'white substance' in Liverpool park

Police cordoned off a park on Childwall Valley Road. Credit: Liverpool Echo

Two dogs have died and a third is seriously ill after ingesting an "unknown white substance" at a park.

The space, on Childwall Valley Road, in Belle Vale, Liverpool, was cordoned off by Merseyside Police after reports four dogs had taken ill.

It received a report at around 2pm on Monday 22 January from a veterinary surgery, where a number of dogs had been admitted after ingesting an unknown substance.

Police say two of the dogs have now died and a third is seriously ill, while another is continuing to receive treatment.

It has now been confirmed by police that two of the dogs have died and a third is seriously ill Credit: Liverpool Echo

Tests are being carried out to establish what the substance is, and specialist contractors will be attending the scene on Tuesday 23 January to remove the substance in a safe and controlled manner.

There have been no reports of any people, or further animals, being affected overnight.

Pedestrians and dog walkers are advised to avoid the area while the incident continues to be dealt with.

Police and fire services were seen at the scene in face masks while they investigated the mysterious white powder. Credit: Liverpool Echo

White Cross Vets in Gateacre said it had dealt with two cases of possible poisoning, and posted a warning on social media on Monday urging owners to be "extra careful".

A spokesperson from White Cross Vets said: "Due to client confidentiality we cannot comment publicly on individual cases.

"However, losing a pet unexpectedly is always extremely difficult and our thoughts are with the families of the affected dogs.

"We will continue to work alongside police and support them with their enquiries.

“It’s common for dogs to ingest things that they shouldn’t when out on a walk, often without the owner’s knowledge, so it’s really important to recognise when something might be wrong and seek urgent vet care straight away.

"Symptoms of poisoning can include vomiting, lethargy, difficulty breathing, appearing uncoordinated and seizures. If your dog displays these signs you should contact your vet as soon as possible for support."

Residents living opposite the cordon were told to keep their windows and doors shut Credit: Liverpool Echo

Chief Superintendent Jonathan Davies said: "The airborne risk from the substance is low but police officers who are at the scene are taking any necessary safety precautions.

"We would continue to advise people to avoid the area as the removal gets underway.

"Anyone who believes they were in the area yesterday and came into direct contact with the substance is advised to seek medical assistance if they believe they have suffered any ill effects.

"We would always advise anyone who comes across an unknown substance to not touch but to report it to police."

Police said anyone who has any concerns can contact NHS Direct on 111.

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