New Forest dog owner warning as pet dies from rat poison

Stefanie Hunt and her husband Dean, of Marchwood, were taking six-year-old Cookie to a vet when the seriously ill animal died in her arms.

The vet examined Cookie and found yellow liquid in her throat, indicating the presence of rat poison.

The loveable cockapoo consumed the substance while being exercised in the New Forest or closer to home.

Dean and Stefanie Hunt is happier times (Image: Stephanie Hunt)

Posting on social media 24 hours after she died, Stefanie said: "Yesterday was the most heartbreaking day of my life. Words can’t describe how utterly devastated and angry we are."

Stefanie, 47, and Dean, 51, have since been contacted by several people who say they have heard of similar cases.

READ MORE: Queen's Park in Southampton searched for toxic substances after dog poisoned

Stefanie said: "I don't know who is doing it or why - I just want to raise awareness.

"If someone is putting poison out to kill rats they should be doing it within their own boundary - and if they're doing it for some other reason they need to be caught.

Cookie was being taken to a vet when she died in her owner's arms (Image: Stefanie Hunt)

"Cookie was taken away from us by someone's cruelty and negligence in putting rat poison out where dogs are walking, playing, and having fun.

"She was a healthy, beautiful, and vibrant dog. She was part of our family and we all miss her so much. I wouldn't want another family to go through the pain that we are.

"She was only six years old and might have had another ten years ahead of her. I've lost my dog and my best friend."

READ MORE: Warning after hedgehogs killed by rat poison in West Wellow

Stefanie has reported Cookie's death to New Forest District Council, the New Forest National Park Authority, Marchwood Parish Council, and Hampshire police.

Six-year-old Cookie died after ingesting rat poison that had been left out (Image: Stefanie Hunt)

Cookie was walked twice a day. She was not taken ill immediately after ingesting the poison and Stefanie has no way of telling when or where it happened.

"The police have been brilliant but can't really do much until more people come forward with their stories."

In a message to other residents, she added: "If you or anyone you know is a victim of this, please report it to the relevant authorities.

"If more people speak up perhaps we can stop it from happening to other families."

A Forestry England spokesperson added: "The National Park Authority has shared the report made to them with us. We have requested further information to help us look into the issue."