Two dogs die after owner takes them for a walk on beach where another dog falls ill

Dog owners are being warned not to visit Cornish beaches after a number of their dogs fell ill and some died.

Visitors to Fistral and Little Fistral beaches in Newquay have found their dogs unwell in recent weeks.

The dog-friendly beach is reportedly open all year round, with similar reports from other beaches in the Newquay area.

At least two owners of the dead dogs have lost their dogs despite receiving urgent veterinary treatment since the start of the year.

Newquay Council confirmed it was aware of the situation and urged people to contact Cornwall Council, which manages the land, with any questions.

Palm oil can be harmful to dogs if ingested in large quantities, while hemlock root can be much more toxic, and dogs should be taken to a vet for immediate treatment if they come into contact with palm oil.

However, no pet owners have reported seeing their dogs digest anything, suggesting it could be something else.

Dog owners who have lost their dogs have said symptoms such as lethargy and vomiting can flare up immediately.

Some have said their dogs have become ill after ingesting palm oil or hemlock root. Both have been reported along the north coast throughout the winter.

Newquay Council said: “We have received a number of calls and messages about dogs becoming seriously ill after visiting the Fistral/Little Fistral area.

Cornwall Council is aware of this and for now we advise you to avoid the area with your dog. If you have any further questions please contact Cornwall Council directly.”

A Cornwall Council spokesperson said: “We have received reports that hemlock roots, which can be toxic to animals, have washed ashore in the Fistral and Little Fistral areas.