Warnings after dog poisonings in south of France countryside
More than 20 dogs, including truffle hunting animals, have been poisoned by mysterious pellets
Truffle hunting dogs have been poisoned alongside household pets. Photo for illustrative purposes only
kaicairone/Shutterstock
Dog owners in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence are being urged to remain cautious after a spate of poisonings in the department’s rural areas and truffle fields.
At least 26 dogs are believed to have been affected since the end of January, mainly on the well-known Valensole lavender fields plateau near the town of Riez.
Poisoned bait, described as small pellets, has been found in fields, footpaths, and other countryside areas frequented by walkers.
The problem is not limited to one area.
Similar poisoned bait has been found in Roumoules, Puimoisson, and as far away as Vinon-sur-Verdon in the neighbouring Var department.
In Puimoisson, some residents are now keeping their dogs on short leads or even using muzzles to protect them. Several dogs reportedly died within minutes of eating the pellets.
Truffle dogs among those poisoned
Officials have yet to identify the exact poison, though it is known to act very quickly. Birds have also been affected.
Authorities are particularly concerned as several of the poisoned pellets have been found in truffle fields.
Truffle dogs, which help growers locate the valuable fungi, have been among those affected.
David Gérin-Jean, interim president of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence truffle growers’ association, described the situation as “exceptionally serious.”
He stated that one member had experienced repeated night-time intrusions in their truffle fields, captured on surveillance cameras. These had been reported to the gendarmerie in Riez.
“The camera was later destroyed by gunfire, and poisoned bait was deliberately scattered,” he told The Connexion. Veterinary treatment succeeded in saving the poisoned dogs in certain cases.
“These incidents go far beyond simple theft,” Mr Gérin-Jean added. “They are violent acts that endanger animals, people, and the environment. Wild birds and raptors have also been found dead nearby, which shows how serious the danger is, both to animals and the wider environment.”
The truffle growers’ association is calling on authorities to take firm action to prevent potential human or ecological disasters.
Mr Gérin-Jean urged residents, particularly dog walkers, to remain cautious. “We are calling on the authorities to treat these events with the seriousness they deserve and to ensure that farmers are protected,” he said.
Veterinarians advise dog owners to seek immediate help if their pets show symptoms such as drooling, shaking, dilated pupils, or seizures.
Owners are also warned not to touch any suspected bait with bare hands, and to photograph and report the location to local authorities.
The investigation is being handled by the French Office for Biodiversity (OFB) and local gendarmes.
