Veterinarian shares dangers of blowfish poisoning in dogs

A veterinary clinic in Western Australia has reported the almost annual surge in dogs presenting with all the symptoms of poisoning - e vomiting, drooling, panting and dullness.

Bunbury and Eaton Vet Clinic senior veterinarian Braden Collins was anglers to correctly dispose of the fish.

"This is the time of year that we see a large number of dogs poisoned after eating blowfish which have been left on the shore by people fishing," Mr Collins said.

"It only takes seconds for a curious dog to eat one of these fish, so the chances of these discarded fish being eaten by a dog are quite high.

"If treated early, most dogs will make a full recovery, but more severe cases often need intravenous fluids and fat-soluble fluids to dilute the toxin, oxygen therapy, and ventilation when needed."

According to Mr Collins, blowfish contain a toxin called tetrodotoxin which is concentrated in their skin and internal organs.

He said one fish can contain enough toxin to kill several dogs.

"So a dog doesn't need to eat the fish to be affected - even licking a fish can cause clinical signs."

Mr Collins also asked people fishing to be considerate of blowfish as they are "living animals".

"We all understand that blowfish are extremely annoying when fishing as they take baits, bite off hooks, and are inedible," he said.

"But all too often the fish are left on the beach to die, which is cruel for the fish, as they will suffer a slow death.

"We would urge anyone who catches a blowfish to either release it back into the water if it is viable, or humanely kill it and place it in a bin if it can't be released.

The community are reminded if they find a blowfish on the shore to safely pick it up and put it in the bin.

Pet owners are also encouraged to contact their vet immediately if they suspect their dog may have eaten a blowfish.