18/05/2026
This is upsetting to see, from the post it is stated the fox had consumed Metaldehyde a chemical that used to be found in slug pellets. Although these products are now banned, many people may still unknowingly have old supplies stored away in sheds and garages.
Even if you know you do not use banned garden chemicals or older products yourself, please do check with older relatives, neighbours, or clients to see what they may still have tucked away.
I recently had an older client offer me some very old garden products to use, with absolutely no idea that several were not only long out of date, but also banned and potentially extremely dangerous to wildlife, pets, and the environment.
Please also remember that these products should never be washed down drains or disposed of in general waste. They need to be disposed of safely and appropriately through your local council’s hazardous waste scheme.
A gentle reminder for everyone to check sheds, garages, and garden cupboards — what seems like an old harmless product could still cause serious harm.
This fox was brought into our care by a kind member of the public after being found collapsed and heavily panting. Due to his symptoms, including neurological issues, our vet suspected he had been poisoned. During his assessment the fox also vomited a strange blue substance, raising concerns that he may have ingested slug pellets!
Whilst we don’t know how this happened, it’s an important reminder that metaldehyde-based slug pellets have been banned in the UK since 2012 due to the danger they pose to wildlife and pets. If you still have any old slug pellets at home in your sheds or gardens, please make sure they are disposed of safely!
As shown in the photo, he was sedated to keep him comfortable and received fluids to help flush the toxins from his system.
We are pleased to share he has made a full recovery and will be released very soon ❤️🩹!
