Several dogs within our community of St Mary's Island have fallen seriously ill after the application of herbicide weed killers. Some beloved pets required hospital stays, and owners suspect these chemicals contributed to their deaths. The use of Round Up and Enforcer Weed Killers, products already banned in various countries for their safety hazards, poses significant risks not only to animals and wildlife but potentially to children also. These safety risks are not being addressed at all by the organisations respond for the landscaping in the area.

Glyphosate, one of the primary ingredients in the weed killers, is the main cause for concern. Numerous studies have linked this chemical to disruptions in the gut microbiome and organ damage. Studies indicate that it causes lymphoma in dogs and causes heart, liver and kidney damage in humans as well as being linked to birth defects in all mammals.

Dogs, Cats, Wildlife and children are more susceptible to exposure due to them being so close to the ground. 

Medway Council have banned these harmful products in green spaces several years ago and yet they are still being used on St Mary’s Island. 

We urge the decision-makers to consider safer, organic alternatives that do not compromise safety for effectiveness. Methods such as manual weeding, vinegar, and salt solutions, or organic herbicides offer efficient results without the detrimental effects of synthetic chemical use.