Dog Ate 1080 Bait? What to Do in Australia
Emergency
If your pet has been exposed, contact your local vet now. After hours, call the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738.
Mainly affects: 🐶 Dogs
Why it's dangerous
1080 is a vertebrate pesticide that interferes with an animal's ability to produce energy and can lead to organ failure. NSW Government says canines are highly susceptible, and suspected ingestion by a dog needs immediate veterinary attention.
Where Australian pets run into it
In NSW, 1080 baiting programs target wild dogs, foxes, feral pigs and rabbits, and landholders must notify neighbours before baiting. Baits can be meat, grain, carrots or manufactured pellets. Pay attention to local baiting notifications, especially if your dog visits farms or rural land.
What to do
Contact your local vet now and call the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738. Do not wait for signs to appear. Do not try to make your pet vomit unless a vet tells you to.
What to say when you call
My (dog/cat) weighs about __ kg. About __ hours ago they ate __ (how much). Symptoms so far: __.
How to prevent it
During NSW baiting programs, keep dogs on your property and restrained or supervised, secure them at night, and pay attention to local baiting notifications. The NSW Government says these precautions should continue during the program and for at least one month after the last bait is laid.
Common questions
My dog may have eaten 1080 bait but has no signs. Should I wait?
No. Contact a veterinarian immediately if you suspect your dog has eaten 1080 bait.
How can I reduce my dog's risk during a NSW baiting program?
Keep your dog on your property, restrain or supervise it, secure it at night and pay attention to local baiting notifications.
Sources
- Using 1080 Baits in NSW — NSW Government
Content checked against these sources on 2026-10-10.
General information only, not veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your local vet.