Christie MacCallum spends some last moments with her dog Henna Rose. (CBC)

Toronto police say a number of dogs appear to have been poisoned in High Park by consuming antifreeze.

The antifreeze was in buckets of water near a hydrant in the off-leash part of the park, according to police.

At least six dogs became ill in separate incidents after visiting the park over the weekend.

Two of the dogs died on Monday night.

Police say dogs will drink water containing antifreeze because it tastes sweet.

But people who use the park to walk their pets are unlikely to stay away entirely.

"I think that dog owners will be a little bit more cautious from now on, but I don't see it having a big impact on activities," said John Cleary, co-chair of the park's off-leash canine committee.

"We're out here every day. A lot of people will probably stay away from 'dog hill' for a bit and not use the drinking fountain. But I don't really think it will impact how we come out to the park."

Four years ago, a number of pets were poisoned in Withrow Park, in the city's east end.

Public health officials found hotdogs laced with insecticide, but never caught the person responsible.

Police warn that animals and small children may be at risk in High Park until their investigation is complete.