Roundup contains a non-selective herbicide known as glyphosate. Ingestion of the concentrate, or larger ingestions of the dilute product can cause poisoning. Symptoms can include vomiting, increased acidity of the blood, electrolyte changes and kidney and liver damage. Fortunately, the glyphosate that Jezabelle walked through was dilute and at most she had only managed to lick a few drops off her paws.

The Animal Poisons Centre recommended that the glyphosate residue be rinsed off her paws with a mild soap and water, and that she be offered a drink of water or something to eat. As she had been exposed to a small amount of diluted Roundup, it was deemed safe to observe at home. On follow-up the next day, Jezabelle remained completely well.

Living with his owner on a rural property in Goulburn was a Border Collie named Ronald. Ronald, an especially energetic 1-year-old who was already well known for his ability to destroy new shoes and furniture legs, was always on the lookout for new opportunities. It didn’t take long for Ronald the exhaust the available shoes and unfortunately, on the second Monday of May he chewed through a near new box of Ratsak Fast Action pellets containing a rodenticide called brodifacoum. The pellets were nowhere to be seen, however some green residue was noted in Ronald’s mouth which was all the evidence the owner needed. A quick call to the Animal Poisons Centre confirmed that this could be a problem.