A Sorrento Valley family is warning others to be cautious after their dog was poisoned in what they believed was the safety of their own backyard.
The incident happened during a normal afternoon when Sabrina Bazzo’s Golden Retriever, Bruno, was outside playing as he often does. Bazzo said she glanced out the window and noticed Bruno chewing on something that did not look right. Concerned, she went outside to investigate.
“It was right here, like right in the middle of our yard,” Bazzo said. “He was chewing on like these two little bundles, and it was wrapped in this string, and when I kind of pulled it open, it had this blue chemical in there and these metal hooks.”
Realizing the situation could be dangerous, Bazzo rushed Bruno to a nearby veterinary hospital in Sorrento Valley just minutes away. Veterinarians acted quickly. They were able to induce vomiting and remove pieces of metal along with a blue substance they believe may have been poison.
Doctors told Bazzo that Bruno’s size and the quick response likely saved his life. After treatment, Bruno survived and is now recovering.
“Your backyard, you know, you feel like it should be your safe place, your haven,” Bazzo said. “And to not know where it came from makes it even more sinister.”
The experience has been especially unsettling for Bazzo, who said she has lived in her home for 28 years and has never dealt with anything like this before. She also shared that several months ago, she received a letter in the mail complaining about barking. Bazzo said Bruno barks occasionally, but she always brings him inside when needed and never considered him a nuisance.
Bruno has played an important role in her life, especially during a recent loss. “It’s been really great to have him during a time that’s been very difficult for our family,” Bazzo said, referring to the comfort Bruno has provided since her husband passed away in June from brain cancer.
The incident is now under investigation by Humane Law Enforcement with the San Diego Humane Society. Officers collected samples of the suspected poison along with Bruno’s vomit to be tested. The agency is reminding the public that intentionally harming an animal is a crime and can carry serious legal consequences.
Authorities have not yet determined how the items ended up in Bazzo’s yard or who may be responsible. For now, the focus remains on gathering evidence and ensuring public awareness.
“If this could happen to us, it could easily happen to someone else,” Bazzo said. “Just be careful and check your yard, even though you think it might be safe.”
The San Diego Humane Society is asking anyone with information related to the case to come forward. Tips can be reported to Humane Law Enforcement at (619) 299 7012, extension 1.
Bazzo hopes sharing Bruno’s story will encourage other pet owners to remain alert and take precautions, even in places that feel secure. Click play below for more on the story.