Toxic Sea Slugs back on beaches

Two toxic slugs have been found on Waiheke Island and is the same type of slug that killed a few dogs on Auckland's beaches in previous years.

The ARPHS issued the following public health advice.

* Children and pets need to be supervised on all Auckland beaches, not just those bordering the Hauraki Gulf.

* Adults, children and pets should not eat anything found washed up on any beach.


* Parents need to be aware of where their children are swimming or playing, and what they are handling.

* Sea slugs on any beach must be avoided.

Anyone who finds a sea slug along the Auckland coastline should mark the spot, leave it alone and contact Auckland Council and ask for an environmental health officer, who will collect the slug.

Auckland Council marine scientist, Dr Jarrod Walker, said he was not expecting the high density of toxic sea slugs that occurred at Narrow Neck and Cheltenham beaches during the 2009-2010 season.

Simon Goodall of Dog Guru (www.dogguru.co.nz) says that this is indeed a problem and no matter how excellent the command leave is for your dog keep a close eye on it over this winter. The best thing you can do is keep an eye out for any slug and if one is spotted alerting other beach goers especially with dogs or small children.