The Lanzarote and La Graciosa Island authorities have activated a protocol aimed at combating illegal poisoning amid growing concerns over recent dog fatalities in the municipality of Haría. The local councils for Hunting and the Environment have advised hunters to refrain from taking their dogs out during the hunting day on Sunday, 23rd August, as these deaths may be linked to poisoning.
Samuel Martín, the councillor for Hunting and Environment, stressed the need to await analytical results before determining the cause of the recent incidents. He stated, “We have activated the poison protocol set out in the Order of 28 March 2014, aimed at eradicating illegal poisoning in non-urban areas of the Canary Islands. Until we know more, we advise hunters not to take their dogs to Haría on Sunday.”
Environmental agents will be conducting heightened surveillance in the area, with support from the local police, Civil Guard, SEPRONA, and game wardens.
Hunters are urged to avoid bringing their dogs to Haría and to exercise caution. If they encounter any suspicious baits, food remnants, or potentially poisoned animals, they should not touch them and instead report the findings to emergency services at 112 or call 928 598 548.
This alert follows an earlier initiative in early August, prior to the hunting season, when the Environment Department established a special inspection and surveillance operation in hunting zones throughout Lanzarote and La Graciosa. This operation, involving environmental agents and a canine unit from Gesplan, aimed to identify any poisoned baits and other illegal trapping methods.
Martín noted, “We were already undertaking preventive measures before the season started. After these recent events, we have implemented the relevant protocol and increased surveillance. We must act with caution, continue inspections, and await the results.”
