A WARNING has been issued to dog walkers after reports of cocktail sausages contaminated with poison being placed in a Benfleet park.

Castle Point Council issued a warning on social media “poison is being left in some of its parks” following claims the poison had been dumped in Woodside Park, in Manor Road.

The warnings follow an incident in Canvey’s Kismet Park that saw a woman’s beloved pet dog poisoned twice after consuming rat poison in the park – with the council issuing a warning to dog owners over “continued reports” of poison being found in the park.

Benfleet resident and dogwalker, Michael Dixon, has been left unsettled by the reports of the poisoning, a fear he has said is reflected in other dogwalkers.

He said: “It’s deeply concerning to hear about poisoned sausages being left in the Woodside area, especially as a regular dog walker in the area.

“I’ve been extra vigilant during my visits to ensure the safety of my dog and urge others to do the same.”

The RSPCA has confirmed it has been made aware of reports in both Woodside Park and Kismet Park.

Michael added: “When I walked there earlier, there were bread rolls someone put out, you don’t know and I saw the Facebook posts, it is not good and over the weekend it made me wary walking my dog.

“I have spoken to some other people and they said they were wary, it got traction as people are now aware of this but do-gooders also do put things out for foxes and for dogs.”

An RSPCA spokesperson said: “It is always concerning to hear reports of any alleged poisoning.

“We do not know how these reported poisonings happened - but we would like to reassure the community that deliberate poisonings are very rare.

“Accidental poisonings from everyday items are much more common so we are urging the community to be vigilant and be aware of the symptoms of poisoning. If you suspect your pet has been poisoned, take them to a vet immediately.

“However, poisoning an animal on purpose is a criminal offence under the Animal Welfare Act, and if anyone has any first hand information about any such activities, they can contact the RSPCA, in confidence, on 0300 1234 999.”

Castle Point Council has urged any concerned residents who spot poison in the parks to contact info@castlepoint.gov.uk and also to the RSPCA and Essex Police.