Dogs die from mystery illness after New Forest walks

A vet has warned dog walkers to be vigilant following the death of a number of pets in the New Forest.

About eight dogs have died following walks in the Latchmore Brook area near Fordingbridge.

Duncan Reavell, from the Lynwood Veterinary Group who has treated some of the dogs, said: "Most of them are contracting acute kidney failure."

A spokesman for the the Forestry Commission, who manages the land, said it was investigating the cause.

It said it was waiting for results to come back from a series of tests taken in the area.

Leg lesions

The Environment Agency said it had also taken samples from the water but there was "no sign of pollution".

Most of the dogs being admitted to veterinary surgeries have lesions on their legs and paws.

Mr Reavell said: "We're not sure if these are eruptions due to a disease inside or actual wounds they are contracting.

"Only two dogs have survived. It's not any known toxic, fungal or bacterial condition."