What poison was used to kill the dog? - briefly
The dog was killed with strychnine, a highly toxic substance often used in pest control.
What poison was used to kill the dog? - in detail
The cause of the dog's death is suspected to be poisoning, and the substance in question is believed to be ethylene glycol. Ethylene glycol, commonly known as antifreeze, is a colorless, odorless liquid that has a sweet taste, making it particularly appealing to animals. It is often used in automotive coolants and heating systems, which increases the likelihood of accidental ingestion by pets.
The symptoms of ethylene glycol poisoning typically appear within hours of exposure and include lethargy, vomiting, seizures, and in severe cases, kidney failure leading to death. Post-mortem analysis revealed the presence of calcium oxalate crystals in the dog's kidneys, a telltale sign of ethylene glycol toxicity. These crystals form as the body attempts to metabolize the poison, ultimately resulting in renal failure and organ shutdown.
Ethylene glycol is highly toxic to dogs, with even small amounts capable of causing serious harm or death. The exact amount ingested by the dog remains unknown, but the severity of the symptoms and the rapid onset of kidney failure suggest a significant exposure. Efforts are underway to identify the source of the poison and determine whether the incident was accidental or deliberate.