[CTRL] Poison Alert Forwarded

[Terry Cox]

>> 6)  POISON ALERT:  New York City/11-11-99 >> Manhattan Dog Chat >> From Dr Michael S. Garvey, Hospital Director >> THE ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER >> Someone is putting a very toxic carbamate insecticide in our immediate >> environment. The compound is carbofuran (Furadan) and has been placed >> in bread and left in areas where people usually feed pigeons. In several >> investigated cases, birds ingesting the poison have been observed to die >> instantaneously after ingestion of the contaminated bread.  One canine >> exposure has also been confirmed and the dog died within 1-2 minutes >> after ingestion of the poison. At least two red tailed hawks have been >> killed as well.  Poisonings have occurred in Manhattan from 86th and >> Lexington to 43 and 6th Avenue, including Central Park. >> >> This poison is extremely powerful.  It is estimated that as little as 7 >> drops can kill as human being, 4-5 droops can kill a child.  It is >> likely that less will kill a dog, cat, or other animal.  So far, the >> poison has been discovered in french bread, but other baits and vehicles >> are also possible.  PLEASE DO NOT LET YOUR ANIMALS GET NEAR >> OR CONSUME ANY FOOD ON THE STREET and be particularly careful >> around areas where people have been feeding pigeons.  Also, be very >> careful around dead birds or other animals.  If an animal were to consume >> a poisoned animal, it would also be poisoned. Veterinarians have an >> antidote for this poison, but the poison acts so rapidly that there >probably will not be time to administer the antidote (atropine). >> >> If you see anything or anyone suspicious, please contact the ASPCA, Department of Humane Law Enforcement (212 876-7700). The ASPCA is investigating all cases. >>