The seaside is poisoning our canine: Mystery over beloved pets taken sick with some even dying after visiting Newquay magnificence spots

Dog owners are being urged to stay away from several Cornish beaches after a number of pooches were taken sick and some died after visiting the county’s beauty spots.

Visitors to Fistral Beach and Little Fistral in Newquay have been noticing their canines becoming unwell in recent weeks following walks at the popular tourist destinations.

There have been similar reports from other dog-friendly beaches in the Newquay area.

At least two devastated owners have lost their beloved pets despite urgent vet treatment since the start of the year, leading local officials to send a warning out about the dangers of walking dogs in these areas.

It is not yet clear what is causing the sudden illness, but it has been suggested that the pups might be digesting either palm oil or hemlock root.

Both are found along the north coast throughout the winter months and are poisonous to dogs.

However, none of the pet owners have reported seeing their hounds digest anything suspicious before falling sick.

Those who have lost their dogs say their symptoms, which include lethargy and vomiting, came on very suddenly.

Visitors to Fistral Beach (pictrued) and Little Fistral in Newquay have been noticing their canines becoming unwell in recent weeks following walks at the popular tourist destinations

Those who have lost their dogs say their symptoms, which include lethargy and vomiting, came on very suddenly (file image) 

It is not yet clear what is causing the sudden illness, but it has been suggested that the pups might be digesting either palm oil or hemlock root (pictured: Sunset from Little Fistral beach) 

A spokesperson for Cornwall Council said: ‘We have received reports that Hemlock roots, which can be poisonous to animals, have washed up in the Fistral and Little Fistral area.

‘Hemlock is native to Cornwall. During the winter it can be washed downstream from riverbanks and ends up on our beaches. As a precaution, we are putting up signs urging dog owners to be vigilant and keep their pets on a lead..’

Palm oil can be harmful to dogs if eaten in large quantities, while hemlock root can be much more toxic in smaller doses.

If dogs come into contact with it, they should be taken to the vet for immediate attention.

Newquay Town Council said: ‘We have received a number of calls and messages about dogs becoming very unwell after visiting the Fistral/Little Fistral area. 

‘Cornwall Council are aware of this. For now, we’d advise avoiding that area with your dogs. If you have any further questions, please contact Cornwall Council directly.’