Apple Valley Police warns pet owners of possible poisonings

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Police in Apple Valley, Minnesota are warning residents to keep an eye on their pets after several reports of poisonings in the area.

Officers recently responded to two reports of animals getting sick in neighborhood near Garden View Drive and County Road 42. One call involved a dog that had ingested some rat poison while outside, which was confirmed by a veterinarian, according to Capt. Nick Francis.

The second call involved two cats and a dog that live in the same home. Both cats became sick and died. The dog was taken to the vet, who has yet to confirm the source of the illness. The cats were known to roam the neighborhood, according to the police.

Police are not sure whether the two incidents are connected or whether the animals were intentionally poisoned, but they are asking pet owners to be on the lookout for any suspicious activity in the area.

Francis said police are being extra cautious in light of recent incidents of pet poisonings in Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Last week, Minneapolis police received reports of unknown foods with poisonous substances that were thrown into residents’ yards. Over the summer, eight dogs in St. Paul were sickened by rat poison-laced dog biscuits found in their yards. 

The Apple Valley Police Department says if you suspect your pet may have been poisoned to contact your veterinarian immediately. If the veterinarian determines your pet has been poisoned, call 911 to report it.