MADISON (NBC 26) -- A series of animal poisonings in multiple Wisconsin counties remains unsolved and is prompting a new warning from wildlife officials as people take their pets outdoors to enjoy the fall weather.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, along with law enforcement professionals from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Forest Service, are issuing a new call for caution while recreating in wooded areas across Forest, Marinette and Florence counties.
Over the past two years, at least nine domestic dog deaths have occurred in the three counties, although wildlife officials say other counties could be involved. Investigators also found dead raptors, coyotes, weasels, raccoons and wolves.
Lab tests revealed "dangerous toxic substances" as the cause of death in the wildlife and dogs, U.S. Fish and Wildlife says. Officials call this an open investigation.
Pet owners are cautioned to keep their dogs on leashes and restrict their movements off of roadways to avoid possible contact with any poison. The DNR says to watch for signs for potential poison in the area, such as dead wildlife.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service asks anyone with information about the recent wildlife and dog deaths to contact its Office of Law Enforcement in Madison at 608-221-1206. The DNR also offers its WDNR Violation Hotline at 1-800-TIP-WDNR or 1-800-847-9367. You also may report online: https://dnrx.wisconsin.gov/rav/
