Posted online: Jun 13th, 2007

Parents and pet-owners have been put on a poison alert at one of Inishowen’s most popular beaches.

The alert was raised after a dog died from suspected poisoning after it is believed he ate a deadly substance at the Isle of Doagh beach at the weekend.

Frank Gilroy’s collie cross dog, Finn, died shortly after returning home from a walk on the beach with his owners on Sunday.

Speaking to the Inish Times, a heartbroken Mr Gilroy, who lives in Gordeyarn in Carndonagh said: “Myself and my wife took our two dogs Finn and Tori to the beach on Sunday.

“It was a beautiful day and the tide was out so we walked across the grass and gravel.

“Forty minutes after we returned home, both dogs began convulsing in the backyard, their legs became weak and they were foaming at the mouth.”

The two dogs were rushed to a nearby vet.

However, dispite desperate efforts to save the dogs, Finn died.

The cause of death confirmed by the vet was suspected poisioing.

“The vet, Leeanne Scott, tried really hard to save both dogs, but unfortunately Finn couldn’t be saved,” said Mr Gilroy.

“It’s believed he consumed more of the poision.”

In a tragic twist of fate, Mr and Mrs Gilroy picked both dogs from the Rainbow Rescue Centre one year to the day that Finn died.

“We’ve had both dogs just a year to the day.

“Tori was very ill after the experience but is doing better now.

“However, the dogs were extremely close and Tori is really missing her great friend and companion.”

When Mr Gilroy informed the gardai and the animal life warden of the incident, they suggested taking it to the media to inform the general public.

“I would just like to take this opportunity to warn others to be so cautious and careful on the beach at the isle of Doagh.

“Something very dangerous is on the beach, and with children there during these summer months, there could be disastourous consequences.”