Risk Assessment and Risk Management of Incidents of Suspected Poisoning

Abstract

Abstract Poisoning in livestock, horses and wildlife may be localised or large events involving single or multiple animals and can have public health, economic or medicolegal, as well as animal welfare, implications. Investigation of these incidents is required to determine the cause, assess the risk to other animals and people and instigate an appropriate risk management plan. Investigations will involve clinical examination and history taking, site visits to determine possible sources of poisoning, post-mortem examination and collection of biological (both ante and post-mortem) and environmental samples (water, soil, feed, suspect plants). Interpretation of laboratory analyses and investigations may involve a multidisciplinary team in order to formulate and implement a risk management programme. Specialist advice should be sought early in the investigation in order to ensure appropriate sampling and correct actions are undertaken. Practitioners should be aware of where and how to report incidents, where to seek advice and have some awareness of common toxicological risks, particularly local or seasonal risks, to livestock and other animals. This case study outlines some of the steps that should be undertaken when handling a case of suspected poisoning in animals and highlights some of the possible circumstances and substances that may result in toxicosis. Information © The Author 2023