Dog walkers are being warned to be on the look out for Palm Oil on local beaches after Church Walk Veterinary Centre in Ulverston reported that a dog was taken to their surgery having potentially eaten the hazardous substance.
A spokesperson from the veterinary surgery said:
"We have had a dog brought into us who had potentially eaten some palm oil. The dog had been on a walk along the beach by Newbiggin (between Bardsea and Rampside).
"Although pure palm oil is not toxic to dogs, it can cause laxative effects along with vomiting and diarrhoea. It can also cause blockages due to its consistency.
"Palm oil is however, toxic when mixed with other products such as diesel oil."
Ships are given permission to dump the oil at sea if at least 12 nautical miles from land. However, storms can bring it to shore. The oil is used as a tank cleaning agent.
