news, local-news, Local Land Services, Macarthur, Foxes, baiting

A local vet is warning pet owners about the lethal dangers of fox baiting as a new campaign is launched in Macarthur. Greater Sydney Local Land Services (LLS) is putting the final touches on its spring fox baiting program which aims to curb the region’s fox colony. The LLS will deploy the chemical 1080, which Uni Vets Camden head veterinarian Dr Jenni Green said could cause harm to domestic pets if ingested. “The bait is extremely lethal to domestic dogs and cats,” Dr Green said. “Once signs of toxicity such as lack of coordination, seizures and mouth frothing are obvious, the bait can prove fatal within 30 to 60 minutes.” Dr Green said pet owners should keep their animals inside when at home and avoid walking their pets near fox baited areas. “If you think your animal has ingested fox bait, you should take them to a veterinarian immediately, even if there are no outward signs,” she said. “If possible, call the vet on the way so they can be prepared to treat your animal immediately upon arrival. “A number of treatment options will be used by your vet including induced vomiting.” The LLS conducts the fox baiting program in Macarthur twice a year – during autumn and spring. LLS biosecurity manager Graham Wilson said foxes were targeted because they spread the noxious African olive weed. “Foxes have played a central role in the demise of several native species,” he said. “They have caused significant financial losses to our farming community and pose a serious veterinary and public health risk. “Foxes are estimated to have caused more than $227.5 million worth of damage to Australia’s unique native environment and economy each year.” Mr Wilson said LLS needed the Macarthur community to do their bit to deter foxes. “Foxes are attracted to food scraps and domestic pets like chickens and rabbits,” Mr Wilson said. “Residents must keep their compost bins properly closed, keep household rubbish in a secure location, feed domestic pets inside and ensure food is not left outside. “Whenever possible, keep pets inside overnight because it helps reduce the foxes’ impact.” Mr Wilson said more than 280 baits were set up during this year’s autumn program, covering more than 30 properties at The Oaks, Oakdale and Orangeville. “Our last Macarthur control program covered more than 1700 hectares of private land,” Mr Wilson said. “Our officers and participating landholders follow strict protocols to protect domestic pets and other animals during the baiting period.” For more details about the fox baiting program, visit the LLS Greater Sydney website.

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