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Dog walkers issued urgent warning after pet falls ill from illegal drugs on UK beach
Published 11:40 13 Aug 2026 BST
Updated 10:15 13 Aug 2026 BST
Homenews
The dog tested positive for drugs after walk
Pet owners have been urged to stay alert after a dog became seriously unwell during a walk on a Devon beach and later tested positive for cocaine and cannabis.
The warning was shared by The Healthy Pet shop after the dog fell ill following a visit to Back Beach in Teignmouth.
Its owners reportedly said this was the only place the animal had been walked over the weekend, raising concerns that it may have come into contact with the substances while outside.
Thankfully, the dog is now recovering and is expected to be okay. The animal weighs more than 30kg, and vets reportedly warned that the same amount of drugs could have been fatal for a smaller dog.
The Healthy Pet shop urged other dog owners to be particularly careful and to remain vigilant when walking their pets, while also warning families with young children about the potential danger.
The RSPCA has separately reminded pet owners that suspected poisoning should always be treated as an emergency.
The charity said: “If you suspect your pet has been poisoned or consumed something harmful, please contact your vet straight away.”
