Dog owners are staying away from Mote Park after poisoning rumours

by Angela Cole

Maidstone's most popular park became a virtual no-go area for dog walkers after rumours of pet poisoning spread round the town.

The scary reports circulating among dog owners said that at least two pets had died as a result of poison being left in Mote Park.

But neither police, council bosses nor animal charities could confirm that any such incidents had taken place.

Fears were raised after the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells branch of the RSPCA posted a message on Facebook saying volunteers had heard dog walkers should be on their guard.

However, a spokesman later said the branch had not dealt with any cases.

his was also the case for Mote Park Veterinary Surgery.

But online forum Dogpages quoted one pet owner saying: “I have heard from two different people that dogs have died after eating rat poison in Mote Park. Please be careful if walking there.”

A number of people also reported hearing of cases of a wolfhound which had died after eating poisoned bait in the park.

This prompted Maidstone council to issue a response, denying that it had put down rat bait.

A spokesman said: “We have not received any confirmed reports of poisoning in Mote Park. No official baiting is taking place there.

“The welfare of animals is very important to us and we will be working with the police to find out what is happening and to take necessary action.”

If you have any information contact the police on 101 or Maidstone council on 01622 602747 or email customerservices@maidstone.gov.uk.

No reports have been made to Maidstone police.