Authorities in East Sussex have issued an urgent warning to dog owners after large quantities of toxic plastic pellets washed up on a popular beach, creating a potentially lethal hazard for pets.
What is the danger to dogs?
Rother District Council has advised that dogs are at risk of serious illness or even death from swallowing the plastic 'biobeads' that have contaminated Camber Sands. The three-mile long beach has been affected by the pollution incident, with officials strongly recommending that owners keep their pets on leads and under close supervision.
The microplastic beads present two significant dangers to canine health. They can become lodged in a dog's stomach or intestines, causing dangerous blockages that require emergency veterinary treatment. Additionally, the pellets carry toxic pollutants that could lead to severe internal injuries including ulcers and organ damage if swallowed.
Clean-up operation underway
Local officials have confirmed they are unaware of the exact source of the pollution but believe the beads were dumped at sea before being carried ashore by tides. The council is working alongside charity Nurdle on a clean-up operation that began on Thursday, November 6, 2025.
A spokesperson for Rother District Council stated: "We strongly advise dog owners to keep dogs on leads and under close supervision while on the beach to stop them potentially eating the pellets." They added that while there are no public health concerns for humans, the plastic pellets should not be ingested by people either.
Ongoing monitoring required
Clean-up crews hope to remove the majority of the plastic pellets by Monday, November 10, but officials acknowledge that further pellets will likely be deposited on the beach as tides continue to move in and out. Council officers will maintain monitoring of the coastline to assess deposit levels and determine if additional action is needed.
Dog walkers who regularly use Camber Sands are being asked to remain vigilant and report any further sightings of the hazardous biobeads to the local authorities while the clean-up operation continues.
