Fair Oaks dog owners on alert after pills found in hot dogs near Miller Park
Neighbors near Miller Park in Fair Oaks are on alert after hot dogs stuffed with what’s believed to be acetaminophen were discovered, authorities said.
Resident Steve Parsley said he went for a walk last week and returned home to find hot dog pieces near the end of his driveway. He kicked a hot dog toward his dog and made the discovery.
“I didn’t think much of it until I kicked one of them towards my dog and that’s when I saw the pill inside one of them,” Parsley said.
The concerned dog owner said he reported the sighting to county animal control and posted signs near the park. Shortly after, he reviewed his security footage that, he said, showed an e-bike driver throwing the hot dog pieces and heading toward Miller Park.
Sacramento County Animal Care Services spokesperson Brittani Peterson said there was not enough evidence to launch an investigation at this time. Those with information were urged to call 311.
“We also encourage pet owners to remain vigilant when visiting parks or public spaces,” Peterson wrote in a statement. “Please keep dogs on leash, closely supervise them and prevent them from picking up or consuming any unknown food or items from the ground.”
Acetaminophen, also marketed as Tylenol, is toxic for dogs in certain doses, according to VCA Animal Hospitals. If ingested, symptoms can begin within four to 12 hours after ingestion. Potential symptoms include rapid breathing, vomiting, panting and a high heart rate.
