Dog dead after eating palm oil on Formby beach

13th January 2020
Palm oil

We are aware that a dog has sadly passed away due to potentially eating palm oil on Formby beach. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for harmful materials such as palm oil to wash up on the beach, so dog owners should always remain vigilant and not allow their dogs to eat anything on the beach.

If you suspect that your dog has consumed palm oil, please seek veterinary advice immediately. If anyone does see what they suspect to be palm oil on Formby beach, please report it to National Trust staff.

What does palm oil look like? It can be identified by a petrol-like, rancid smell. Some lumps typically have a yellow/white appearance, but many are difficult to spot as they are grey and covered in sand (see photo).