Reports of “dog poisonings” in Yucca Valley are under investigation by Sheriff’s Department

Jef Harmatz Jef Harmatz Send an email July 15, 2026

Reports of dogs being poisoned in Yucca Valley are being investigated by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. 

Social media users have said that chicken bones laced with anti-freeze have been found in and around Yucca Valley’s Community Center park and the neighborhood surrounding the park. Some posts have said that dogs have become sick from anti-freeze and even died. On Tuesday morning (July 14) one resident placed a warning sign at the community center telling dog owners to be aware.

Officials have not confirmed any evidence of chicken bones contaminated with anti-freeze. 

The Sheriff’s Morongo Basin Station said that they have received reports about the suspected poisonings. They said that they are currently investigating multiple reports, and the reports are being investigated as connected. No suspects have yet been taken into custody. 

Yucca Valley Town Manager Curtis Yakimow said that Town staff “remain in active observation of the Community Center Complex.”

The Sheriff’s Department suggested that pets be supervised when they are outside, even in a fenced yard.

The Town of Yucca Valley advised pet owners to keep your dog on a short leash in parks and common areas where suspicious food may have been left. They say you should not allow scavenging from the ground, including chicken bones, meat scraps, treats, or puddles.

If you suspect your dog ate something poisonous, move your dog away from the source. If it’s safe, collect the suspected material or take a photo. Then contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary hospital immediately or you can call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435 for guidance.

Jef Harmatz Jef Harmatz Send an email July 15, 2026
Jef Harmatz

Jef Harmatz

Jef Harmatz is the co-host of Z107.7’s “Morning Show with Cody and Jef” and Z107.7’s News Director. He has worked as a journalist, cartoonist, chef, and delivery driver. He is known nationally for his writing and comics in publications like TimeOut, Popula, Roadtrippers, Solrad and Spiralbound, and for his album covers for Third Eye Blind and Sir Sly. He is known locally for his pop-up barbecue restaurant Hot Dog Panic. He remains unknown in the field of beekeeping, because he is too afraid of being stung to try it. When not on the radio, he draws comics and self-publishes little books. He lives with his partner and his dog Sunday in Yucca Valley, where he cooks them both elaborate meals.