These reports were common in Sandton, where a door-to-door investigation uncovered a pattern of poisoning linked to criminal activity. Inspectors responded to numerous calls from concerned residents before launching a detailed investigation across 20 local properties. 

During the operation on Tuesday (26/5), they discovered that several dogs had allegedly been poisoned using a black toxic substance concealed inside hot dogs. These baited food pieces were reportedly thrown into residential properties by criminals. 

In total, 15 dogs are confirmed to have died as a result of this poisoning method.

In several cases, once the dogs had been poisoned and rendered unable to alert homeowners, suspects allegedly broke into the affected properties. Families were traumatised after being held hostage during some of these invasions, while valuable items were stolen.

Signs of poisoning may include

• excessive drooling;
• vomiting or diarrhoea;
• trembling or seizures;
• difficulty breathing;
• weakness or collapse; and
• bleeding or pale gums.

Helpful emergency items

• activated charcoal;
• hydrogen peroxide 3% (only if advised by a vet to induce vomiting);
• syringes for administering liquids;
• fresh water; and
• emergency numbers of your nearest vet and after-hours animal hospital.

Homeowners and residents who find suspicious food items such as meat, sausages, or hot dogs in their yards are urged not to touch them with bare hands, to keep pets away immediately, and to safely seal the items, if possible, before reporting them to the police, SPCA, or a veterinarian.

Two years ago, an organised housebreaking syndicate operating in Bloemfontein was also linked to the poisoning of guard dogs as part of its modus operandi to gain access to homes and steal valuables.

Private security company Fidelity ADT reported that five incidents of dog poisoning were recorded alongside burglaries in Bloemfontein, particularly in areas such as Bayswater, Noordhoek, Generaal de Wet, and Wilgehof.

Syndicates not only target homes after disabling dogs but also steal gate motors to facilitate further access to residential properties and townhouse complexes, according to Fidelity ADT. The stolen equipment is often resold, adding another layer to the criminal enterprise.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame mvh

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