A VET has warned of the dangers of 'Alabama Rot' after a dog is suspected to have died of the disease following a trip to Whixall Moss.

Barclay-Moore Partnership, who have branches in Whitchurch and Wem, say the case is 'suspected but not confirmed' to have come from the nature reserve, but are advising dog owners to wash their dog's feet after muddy walks and to monitor for signs of the disease.

A spokesman for the vets urged dog owners to contact the vets if they noticed any signs of the disease.

"We have been made aware of a suspected case of cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy (Alabama Rot) in a dog that was walked on Whixall Moss a few days prior," they said.

"The cause of this disease is not fully understood, but it is thought to be more likely to appear after walking in muddy areas during the winter. It causes skin lesions and can later affect the function of the kidneys.

"The case was suspected not confirmed, and it cannot be said for sure how or where it was contracted.

"We are not currently advising clients to avoid walking their dogs on the Mosses at this point.

"We are, however, advising washing the feet well following any muddy walk and to monitor closely for any skin lesions.

"Please call us immediately if you notice any skin lesions without a known traumatic cause.

"Our deepest condolences to the family of the dog in question."