162 cases of aldicarb intoxication in Georgia domestic animals from 1988-1998.

This research conducted a retrospective study over a decade (1988-1998) on aldicarb poisoning in domestic animals in Georgia, finding 162 confirmed cases and 18 suspected cases; most poisonings seemed intentional, with dogs being the most frequent victims.

Introduction to the Study

• This research paper presents a retrospective study carried out over a 10-year period (1988-1998) on aldicarb poisoning in domestic animals.
• The studies were conducted on animals submitted to the University of Georgia Veterinary Diagnostic and Investigational Laboratory.
• During the period examined, there were 162 separate confirmed cases of aldicarb poisoning, and an additional 18 cases were suspected based upon bioassay (a method of measuring the amount of a substance in an organism).

Analysis of the Cases

• In some instances of aldicarb intoxication, as many as 15 animals were affected.
• Dogs were the most common victims of aldicarb poisoning. However, other domestic animals like cats, horses, cattle, and goats were also poisoned.
• The poisonings seemed to be mostly intentional or malicious, as baits such as frankfurters, ham, or ground beef laced with aldicarb were consistently found in the animals’ stomach contents.

Regulations and Misuse of Aldicarb

• Aldicarb is restricted to agricultural soil application in Georgia, thus minimizing the chances for accidental poisoning of domestic animals.
• It is primarily used as a systemic insecticide for pecan trees, peanuts, and cotton crops and its use is regulated under license.
• Despite this, aldicarb seems to be favoured as a malicious poison, potentially due to its rapid lethal effects on animals.