This crowdfunder has been set up by the Stop The Poison campaign. Over the last year (and perhaps longer) there have been a number of sudden deaths or seriously ill pet dogs in Dunstable, Bedfordshire following walks in the Green Lanes/Totternhoe Knolls greenspaces. Poisoning was confirmed in one incident in July 2020 but there have been others where toxicology tests or post-mortems were not done. In January 2021, a dog called Nanuk died and the owners got a post-mortem which proved that strychnine, a banned poison had caused the death. Local people are very concerned by these incidents (look at our petition) but until Nanuk's death we did not know which poison was causing it.

We need to understand the cause of death if other dogs die in these circumstances. This will provide clarity for owners and the local community, as well as assisting the police in their investigation. Not every owner can afford the cost of an unexpected post-mortem (which can cost upwards of £140+VAT). This fund will cover costs of post-mortem for dogs who die in similar circumstances in the Dunstable area. All results will be provided to the police and shared with the campaign (as a condition of receiving the funding).

All money raised will be used towards the cost of veterinary post-mortems for dogs who die following incidents in the Dunstable area which are considered to be relevant to the campaign. A discussion will be had with the relevant vet to discuss the circumstances and symptoms before funding is agreed. Payment will be made direct to veterinary practices and not individuals. Funding can be requested by contacting the campaign here on Facebook.

The fund will be reviewed after one year, and once there have been no cases or requests for funding for six months, any leftover money will be donated to Appledown Rescue and Rehoming Kennels in Eaton Bray. Appledown is a local rescue which helps dogs. Appledown Rescue is not affiliated with the Stop The Poison campaign but is a very worthy cause if we have leftover funds.