Beached Pufferfish

Beached Pufferfish

Beached Pufferfish

We have just been notified today that there are a number of beached puffer fish at Bonbeach, Victoria, Australia.

Pufferfish (also known as toadfish, blowfish or simply blowies) can be very attractive to pets. Dogs have been known to quickly eat washed up pufferfish before their owners can stop them, in some cases whole! Sometimes pet owners may be unaware that their pet has ingested a pufferfish until they develop the signs of poisoning soon after a visit to the beach.

Most pufferfish are toxic when ingested. They contain a highly potent neurotoxin known as tetrodotoxin in their organs and skin. Pufferfish ingestion can be life-threatening and result in a rapid onset of paralysis which typically begins in the back legs and progresses forward to the respiratory muscles. If your pet has ingested a pufferfish, they require urgent veterinary attention. Do not wait for symptoms to develop.

Please be cautious if heading down to Bonbeach with your dog over the next couple of days. Keeping your dog leashed is a good idea and can be a useful strategy to prevent your dog eating beached pufferfish and jellyfish. For all animal poisoning queries, you can call the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738 (AU) or 0800 869 738 (NZ) . Our service is free for all pet owners.

For more pet poison updates, subscribe to our mailing list at animalpoisons.com.au/stay-up-to-date.