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⚠️ Attention Dog Owners – Palm Oil Warning on Formby Beach - Fatal to Dogs ⚠️
- Formby Bubble
- 12 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Dog lovers, please be aware — palm oil has been spotted on Formby beach, and it poses a serious risk to your pets.
On Wednesday morning, the National Trust facilities team removed seven bin bags full of palm oil deposits found near Albert Road. While much has been cleared, there is still a chance more could wash up along the shoreline.
In 2018 there was a lot of Palm Oil washed up on Formby and Ainsdale beaches. The yellow waxy material, with a grey outer crust, is harmless to humans, but can be fatal to dogs if they eat it. Dogs also find the material attractive, so are likely to head towards it. Pets should be kept under close control on the beach at present, especially on the tideline, although the material can appear anywhere after high tides, owners should remain vigilant.
Why is palm oil dangerous?
Palm oil has a strong, rancid, petrol-like smell that dogs find very attractive — but it’s highly toxic if ingested. It can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and in some cases, serious illness.
How to spot palm oil:
Waxy lumps on the beach
Usually white, yellow, or grey in colour
Often covered in sand, making it difficult to see
Has a strong, unpleasant smell
Where does it come from?
These deposits are believed to originate from a shipwreck 16 miles southwest of Holyhead, which sank over 30 years ago carrying a cargo of palm oil. Rough sea conditions can disturb the wreck, releasing palm oil into the water — which then washes ashore, especially after storms.
If you spot something suspicious:
Please don’t touch it
Take a photo if safe to do so
Report it to a National Trust team member at Lifeboat Road car park, or email: formby@nationaltrust.org.uk
Please keep a close eye on your dog when walking on the beach and avoid letting them eat or sniff unfamiliar objects. If you’re concerned your dog may have come into contact with palm oil, seek veterinary attention immediately.
A big thank you to Village Vets #Formby, Sefton Council, Green Sefton, and our dedicated local volunteers including Formby & Freshfield Beach Litter Angels for continuing to help keep our coastline safe.
Stay safe out there and please spread the word to fellow dog walkers.
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