Food laced with poison has been spread over a wide area of the Ta' Cenc plateau in Gozo, and dog owners are being warned to keep their pets on a leash.

The Gozo SPCA received this information from an ALE police officer, who informed it that three dogs had nearly died after eating the poisoned food.

Luckily, they were saved by their quick-thinking owner who immediately administered salt to these dogs. The salt served as an antidote and made them vomit, effectively saving their lives.

The Gozo SPCA is warning dog owners to either keep away from the area, or keep the dogs on a leash at all times.

They are also being advised to carry salt in their car and to give a strong salt water solution to their dog if they suspect poisoning. They are also advised to seek veterinary assistance immediately.

The Gozo SPCA condemned this callous and barbaric use of poison, which caused a slow and agonising death.

Anyone with information that could establish the identity of the perpetrators were asked to contact the Victoria police or the Gozo SPCA on 2155 3769.

John Mizzi, Alternattiva Demokratika's representative on the Sannat council, also deplored the situation and appealed to the police to ensure that the culprit or culprits were caught.

He said that families, children and pets, as well as tourists, should have every right to enjoy the open spaces and the countryside without the risk of encountering poison in their path.

Contacted yesterday, Victor Borg, who owns the land at Ta' Cenc, said he had not heard of this incident.