A family dog died a slow, agonizing death after unknowingly ingesting a 1080 poison bait during a walk on the beach. Within hours, the 16-month-old was vomiting and seizing. Despite emergency care, there was no antidote. He died 24 hours later in the family's arms. No one was aware that baits had been laid nearby. This traumatic loss is not isolated—other pets, wildlife, and even native species are suffering the same fate.

1080, or sodium fluoroacetate, is a potent poison used primarily in Australia for the control of pests. While it targets invasive species, the non-selective nature of the poison means that any animal can fall victim to it. According to the RSPCA, the effects of this poison are far-reaching, with countless animals experiencing excruciating deaths each year. Studies have shown that 1080 poisoning affects not just target species but also threatens the survival of native wildlife.

In addition to the significant emotional burden placed on pet owners, the ecological impact of 1080 is deeply concerning. Native species critical to the biodiversity of Australia, including marsupials and birds, have succumbed to its effects. Furthermore, there is an inherent risk of contamination, endangering not just animals but potentially having wide-reaching environmental consequences as well.

The time for change is now. We can no longer turn a blind eye to the suffering caused by 1080 poison. Safer, humane alternatives are available and need to be employed immediately. Methods such as predator-proof fencing, sterilization programs, and more targeted trapping can offer effective pest control without putting non-target species at risk.

We demand an immediate halt to the use of 1080 poison across Australia. Let's protect our pets, conserve our biodiversity, and commit to wildlife management practices that are humane and environmentally responsible. Sign this petition to urge decision-makers to end the use of 1080 poison and adopt safer, more ethical pest control methods.