Dogs Die, Are Mysteriously Sickened After Walks Near Venice Canals

VENICE (CNS) - A mystery continued Tuesday into what killed at least six dogs and sickened about 10 more after walks near the Venice canals.

The Venice Canals Association announced the deaths on Instagram on Monday, saying dogs have been vomiting, having seizures and collapsing. The association has posted fliers in the area warning pet owners and dog walkers to keep dogs leashed and away from canal water or shared bowls and to immediately consult a veterinarian if an animal shows symptoms.

According to the online news outlet the Westside Current, the animals died between July 6 and July 27. The sickest of the dogs was reported to be in intensive care. One dog named Shadow began vomiting, stopped eating and eventually died on July 21, according to the Current.

Other deaths included a year-old golden retriever puppy, Ginger, who had recently had a checkup that found nothing wrong. Yet, the pup died after having a seizure following a walk near the canals.

While the cause of the deaths and illnesses has not been pinpointed, the Canals Association speculated the culprit could be rat poison, toxic algae or a contagious virus.