Guernsey dog owners warned over white substance
Guernsey's Environment Department has warned dog owners to keep their pets away from any white substance they may find on local beaches.
The warning comes after a white waxy substance in a hard lump was found on Saints Bay on the island yesterday morning. According to the department, the substance - which has now been removed for analysis - did not have a strong smell but its appearance suggests a degraded fat or oil.
These reports follow the recent death of a dog in Cornwall after it had eaten a white substance found on a beach, which was later identified as a degraded edible oil or fat, likely to be palm oil.
Lumps of degraded palm oil were found washed up on many Cornish beaches a week ago, with further reports of the substance from Ouaisne Bay in Jersey a few days ago. Although it is not harmful to human health, the department says it could be dangerous to dogs as it has gone rancid.
States Works have been instructed to remove any substance of a similar description found on beaches. Members of the public have been advised not to remove the palm oil themselves, but anyone who has picked any up should double wrap it in plastic and dispose of it with their normal refuse.
Beaches are to be monitored by the Environment Department and States Works but members of the public who find white deposits are asked to report to the Environment Services Unit on 01481 717200.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
