Pet puppy rushed to hospital after poisoned with rat bait

A pet puppy has been taken to hospital in a serious condition after it was allegedly given rat poison.

The Staffordshire bull terrier, known as Toby, had consumed rat bait at his home in South Mackay in Queensland.

His distraught owners came home to find the pooch "agitated" and "very sick", Queensland Police said.

Toby was taken to the local vet who confirmed he had consumed a quantity of rat bait resulting in his serious condition.

"Toby’s owner has confirmed with police that he does not own or use rat bait at his South Mackay home," a Queensland Police spokesperson said.

Pets in surrounding South Mackay homes were not affected.

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Queensland Police later confirmed as a result of Toby's quick medical treatment, he has almost completely recovered from the incident.

Mackay police are encouraging anyone who may have information that could assist officers investigating this matter to call the Mackay station on 07 4968 3444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Other councils around the country are warning residents of attempted dog poisonings.

Central Coast Council in NSW yesterday reported poison-laced meat had been found at Ettalong Oval in recent days.

"Anyone that comes across a bait or potential bait should report this to the police and rangers immediately," the council said in a statement.