A Walk Turns into an Emergency
Meet Lillie, an 11-year-old cattle dog/Bull Arab/Australian Shepherd cross, whose typical stroll took an alarming turn that no pet owner ever anticipates.
Lillie and her owner were walking along the footpath behind Stumers Creek, between the Coolum pool and sports field-a seemingly safe and familiar route. But shortly after their walk, Lillie’s behaviour changed drastically.
Recognising the Warning Signs in Case of a Pet Emergency
Lillie began exhibiting unusual symptoms:
- Staring off into space
- Overreacting to sudden movements and loud noises
- Walking abnormally
- Appearing disoriented and frightened
- Unable to sit or stand
Her owner, sensing something was seriously wrong, acted quickly and brought her to us at Animal Emergency Service Tanawha.
Diagnosis: Toxicity in Dogs
Upon examination, our veterinary team suspected that Lillie may have ingested harmful substances-potentially drugs or medications irresponsibly left behind in public spaces.
Tests confirmed the presence of marijuana, opioid (heroin), and barbiturate toxicity in Lillie’s system.
Treatment and Recovery of Toxicity
To help Lillie recover, we provided:
- Sedation to ease her stress and anxiety
- Intravenous fluids and supportive care to flush the toxins from her system
Thanks to her owner’s quick action and the comprehensive care she received, Lillie made a full recovery and is now back to being her happy, healthy self.
A Vital Reminder for Pet Owners
Lillie’s story is a reminder that even familiar public spaces can pose hidden dangers to our pets. Discarded substances, such as medications or recreational drugs, can be toxic-and even fatal-if ingested.
What to Do for Toxicity in Dogs
- Stay vigilant during walks, especially in areas frequented by the public.
- Keep your pet on a leash and supervise them closely.
- If you notice any unusual behaviour, seek veterinary care immediately.
Let’s Keep Our Community Safe
At Animal Emergency Service, we’re committed to keeping our community safe for everyone, including our furry friends. Together, we can help raise awareness and ensure that our public spaces remain safe for pets, children, and all members of our community.