Be a responsible dog owner

1080 is designed to kill pests in our forest, but it can kill dogs if they are allowed in poisoned areas.

These signs are for you and your dogs’ protection. Be a responsible dog owner and stay out of areas where you see these signs.

If you must enter the area keep your dog on a leash and keep them well fed and hydrated. Stay clear of any dead carcasses and at no time should you let your dog roam free.

Prevention against poisoning is always better than trying to treat a dog that has been poisoned.

Keep your dog safe
  • take notice where 1080 operations have occurred before heading out
  • don't ignore the operation signs. If they're there - it's not safe for your dog
  • if you go near an operation use a muzzle or keep the dog on a leash
  • don't risk it​

Treatment is possible


If your dog can be taken to the nearest vet - treatment is possible. Don't think that because they've been exposed to 1080 there's no option. Time is of the essence. Call ahead and tell them it's 1080. Take note of where your nearest vet clinic is and keep the number easily accessible. 

Know the signs of 1080 exposure
  • anxiety
  • frenzied behaviour such as running or howling
  • hypersensitivity to sound or light
  • failure to respond to owner
  • vomiting
  • urinating and defecating inappropriately

Take action

  1. Act immediately. The time it takes for 1080 to work may be as little as 30 minutes to 2 hours before symptoms occur, depending on the dose. It is best to take action immediately rather than wait for the symptoms to appear. 
  2. Induce vomiting immediately using soda crystals (sodium carbonate). The soda crystals can be made into a paste with water and put on the back of the dogs' tongue. Note: while salt has been regarded as a useful way to induce vomiting, excess amounts can be lethal.  
  3. Immediately take the dog to the vet, call to let them know you are coming and that they may have ingested 1080. The NZVA have provided 3 treatment options to veterinarians 

Source: New Zealand Veterinarian Association, VetScript, December 2019, page 42 - 44
Source: National Pest Control Agencies www.npca.org.nz
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Facts image gallery

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These signs are for your protection
Heed warning signs - if they are up, no matter how long, it means your dog is still vulnerable

Download

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Click to download the TBfree factsheet
New Zealand Veterinarian Association have featured updated information on prevention and treatment for 1080 in dogs. Click below to download.
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Fact sheet on dogs around the Hunua Ranges, a 1080 pest management project by the Auckland Council.
Useful general information on 1080 and dogs.
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The National Possum Control Agency has produced information about 1080 for dog owners and how to protect them.