Dog owners have been warned about a deadly plant worse than Japanese knotweed that has been found on UK beaches.
Four dogs have already died after consuming the poisonous plant found at many tourist hotspots.
The fatal weed – hemlock – has been spotted on several Cornwall beaches, causing widespread concern among pet owners.
Sometimes known as hemlock water-dropwort and hemlock root, it is common in shallow water.
The fatal weed is called hemlock, and has been spotted on several Cornwall beaches
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Although the plant is usually found near rivers and fresh water, it can wash up on beaches after stormy weather.
The Cornwall Live has reported sightings of the plant across the south and north coast in recent months.
Cornwall Council has now issued a warning to protect both pups and humans from the plant, which has no antidote.
A spokesperson said: “There are reports of hemlock roots washing up on beaches in the Fistral and Little Fistral area of Newquay. They look and smell like parsnips and can be poisonous to animals.
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“The roots are often washed down from riverbanks during the winter. As a precaution, we're putting up signs urging dog owners to be vigilant and keep pets on a lead.”
Polzeath Beach Ranger Service warned that the weed is “the most toxic plant native to Britain,” posing a threat to humans and dogs.
It explained that the toxin oenanthotoxin, which is found in the plant, causes the body to shut down through attacking the central nervous system.
“The roots contain the most toxin, the stem has a lot, and the leaves slightly less. Apparently, if you just touch the leaves and then eat a sandwich, say, then you’re going to get really ill,” the service added.
Cornwall Council has issued a warning to protect both pups and humans from the plant, which has no antidote
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The service encouraged adults to keep an eye on their children and pet owners to make sure their dogs don’t come in contact with the deadly plant.
“No one is being encouraged to collect and dispose of the plant if you see it, but please take suitable precautions if you do.” they said.
Hemlock poisoning often shows symptoms after 30 minutes or up to three hours after exposure.
Symptoms include trembling, a burning sensation in the digestive tract, muscle pain, loss of speech and convulsions.
Experts also advise Britons not to try and make the infected vomit.
