“Risa has always prioritized the health and happiness of her four-legged co-stars. The suggestion that she or her team knowingly introduced harmful substances is categorically false. We are cooperating fully with authorities.”
The “poison” referenced in the essay’s title is both literal and metaphorical. A 2024 study by the University of Tokyo’s Department of Environmental Chemistry detected high concentrations of phthalates, lead, and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in popular dog collars marketed as “luxury accessories.” These chemicals are known endocrine disruptors and neurotoxins, posing health risks to dogs (skin irritation, hormonal imbalance) and, indirectly, to humans via shared living spaces.
Many of the accessories featured in Risa Murakami’s posts are sourced from overseas manufacturers that lack strict regulatory oversight. While the aesthetic appeal is undeniable, the long‑term health implications are seldom discussed in the influencer narrative. “Risa has always prioritized the health and happiness
Risa launched a #PoisonFound awareness drive:
The campaign has already reduced prop‑related incidents by 73 % across her production team and inspired similar moves from rival agencies in Korea and the United States. The “poison” referenced in the essay’s title is
Beyond hardware, the grooming products employed to achieve the glossy fur seen on camera often contain synthetic fragrances, parabens, and even formaldehyde‑releasing preservatives. A 2023 investigative piece by The Japan Times revealed that a best‑selling “shiny‑coat spray” used by several high‑profile dog models contained a concentration of benzophenone‑3 exceeding the safety limits set by the European Union. Chronic exposure can cause dermatological issues and may be carcinogenic.
When Risa refers to “poison” she isn’t talking about literal venom. Instead, she highlights chemical, environmental, and psychological toxins that can infiltrate a seemingly innocuous photo‑shoot: The campaign has already reduced prop‑related incidents by
| Category | Typical Sources | Potential Impact on Dogs | |----------|----------------|---------------------------| | Chemical Toxins | Synthetic fabrics (e.g., polyester treated with flame retardants), cheap plastic props containing phthalates, scented sprays. | Skin irritation, endocrine disruption, respiratory distress. | | Environmental Hazards | Heavy‑metal dust from old studio floors, excessive heat on set, bright strobe lighting. | Heatstroke, dehydration, eye strain. | | Psychological Stress | Long hours, loud noises, forced posing, lack of breaks. | Anxiety, cortisol spikes, behavioral regression. | | Nutritional “Poison” | Treats high in artificial flavors or excessive sodium used as “props.” | Obesity, pancreatitis, kidney strain. |
Following the scandal, several TikTok creators began recreating Murakami’s “poisoned treat” scenes as dark humor. This prompted a warning from the ASPCA about normalizing animal endangerment as entertainment.