Lab test shows Derby pet was poisoned

Suspicions surrounding suspected dog poisonings in the Kimberley have grown after laboratory tests confirmed a dog was deliberately poisoned in Derby.

Broome veterinary nurse Helen Mooney said a recent toxicology report found poison present in the dog's stomach but further tests were needed to identify the type of toxin.

The pet was found dead in a backyard in December.

The finding has heightened concern with local dog owners who have raised the alarm on social media about alleged attacks after several cases of dogs dying in suspicious circumstances were reported around Broome and Derby.

Shire of Derby West Kimberley ranger John Kerry said there had been at least 12 cases of suspected dog baitings reported in Derby just before Christmas.

Shire of Broome manager of law enforcement and compliance Markus Gaschk said rangers had attended one case in recent months in which the owner suspected the dog had been poisoned, but this could not be confirmed.

"Poisoning a dog is a criminal offence and so we would recommend anyone who suspects this has taken place to contact the RSPCA," Mr Gaschk said. "Shire rangers are aware of some speculation about dogs being given poisoned baits in Broome, but do not know of any confirmed cases.

"But if this is taking place then it is of great concern."

However, Mr Gaschk said it was not uncommon for people to suspect a dog had been poisoned when in fact it had died from a snake bite or other cause that was difficult to detect.

Meanwhile, another toxicology report is under way after a distraught dog owner lost her dog to a suspected dog-baiting attack two weeks ago.

Djarindjin resident Jillian Cottle had travelled to Broome on January 23 for a few days with her beloved dog Jadas and was staying at a friend's house.

On the second day, Ms Cottle said she had gone out shopping and returned to find the four-year-old Alaskan malamute convulsing on the ground. It died shortly after.

Ms Cottle initially suspected a snake bite until she found a lump of meat in the front yard the next day. She said her friend took a sample of the meat to a vet who suspected it had been baited.

The piece of meat has been taken away for testing.