Response to concerns raised by the public following reports of dogs becoming ill along certain beaches – updated 2 April 2025

“Carmarthenshire County Council are aware of concerns raised by the public following reports of dogs becoming ill along certain beaches. The Council is liaising with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), and local veterinary practices to ensure relevant factual information is shared with other agencies including Dwr Cymru Welsh Water, and Natural Resources Wales for any follow up actions. If people are concerned, we would suggest you keep your dog on a lead and control their eating and drinking sources whilst visiting the beach.  

“The public are also reminded to be aware of Hemlock, a poisonous plant that produces umbrella-like clusters of white flowers in Summer. It can be found in damp places, such as ditches, riverbanks, and waste ground, but is not likely to be found on dynamic, exposed areas such as beaches, unless its roots are washed up on shore. The public are advised to avoid these plants and ensure dogs are kept away as well.”

Cabinet Member responsible for Public Protection – Cllr Aled Vaughan Owen