Beware toxic sea slugs that may wash up on our beaches over the warmer months. Dog owners should ensure they keep their dogs on a leash and parents should keep a close eye on their children playing on the beach.

Sea slugs are common marine animals, found all around New Zealand. There are many species, but one species in particular, Pleurobranchaea maculata, was linked to the deaths of nine dogs on Auckland beaches in 2009 and they’re visiting us again. 

A warning has been issued on social media, claiming that two dogs have become ill after ingesting the toxic slugs this year. 

“A beautiful 12-month-old griffon that ate one while playing on Takapuna beach had a seizure and died within minutes. A husky pup was on life support after being at Orewa beach; he had a seizure but is now recovering.

“Sea slugs can be in seaweed so your dog can eat them quicker than you can do anything. So, if you have a young dog, a dog that will eat anything, stay away from East Coast Beaches!!!! Be vigilant.”

Right now, any sea slugs on any beach should be avoided, and if you do see one, report it to your local council.

In 2013, eggs laid by toxic sea slugs, and their sacs, were suspected to be the cause of seizures suffered by dogs walking on Auckland beaches. Both the slugs and sacs contain tetrodotoxin, the poison found in puffer fish, which was found in high concentrations on beaches in Auckland and Coromandel.

This summer, people need to be aware of sea slugs and treat them with the same caution they would stingrays and jellyfish. Symptoms of poisoning include numbness and tingling around the mouth. Nausea and paralysis can also occur. Anyone touching them should immediately wash their hands thoroughly and seek medical advice. 

If a dog is showing symptoms of poisoning, they should be taken to a vet. However, if they have come into contact with the toxic sea slugs there is not much that can be done, as sadly, the deaths tend to happen very quickly.