A Dundee councillor has urged the local authority to review its use of weedkillers amid fears that chemicals used in the city’s green areas could be poisoning dogs.
A number of dogs have been struck down by unexplained illness in recent weeks, with city vets confirming they have had a number of cases of liver damage.
Problems have been reported in Broughty Ferry parks, as well as Balgay Park.
Councillor Fraser Macpherson, acting for the West End, said: “Following concerns raised by constituents regarding weedkiller use at Balgay Park recently, I raised this with the city council.
“It’s a concerning situation and it’s very important we get to the bottom of it, but it’s also important that people don’t jump to conclusions.
“There is no evidence at the moment that weedkiller is the cause of the poisonings and council officers have assured me the chemicals they use are approved as safe.
“However, I do think that given the concerns, it should be investigated and there should be a review of the use of weedkillers.
“I’m a dog owner myself and obviously it’s frightening for pet owners.”
Last week a number of dog owners reported that the animals had gone off their food and were being sick.
The Tay Veterinary Centre urged pet owners to be vigilant and to look out for symptoms such as lack of energy, loss of appetite, dark urine, jaundice, vomiting and diarrhoea.
In response to Councillor Macpherson’s concerns, a spokesman from the local authority’s environment department said: “Dundee City Council currently follow all guidelines and approvals in relation to the supply and application of herbicides, in this instance Glyphosate.
“Current government advice describes Glyphosate as an important chemical for use in environmental operations and it is approved for use in the UK until 2022.
“Our staff are certificated and experienced in the application of herbicide, which is applied in a controlled manner in Dundee City Council’s areas of responsibility, including areas of open space and streetscape.
“We regularly review and monitor our product use and will continue to do so.
“At this time we have no plans to remove our current herbicide maintenance regime but shall continue to research alternatives and follow government guidance.”
