Received:

INVESTIGATION INTO MYSTERY NEW FOREST DOG DEATHS APPEALS FOR HELP FROM DOG OWNERS

A recent spate of dog deaths in the New Forest in Hampshire has prompted our scientists to assist in an on-going investigation into this mystery dog illness.

If you have walked your dog in the New Forest Fordingbridge area this winter, please complete this questionnaire, even if your dog has not been affected.

Dog owners are advised to look out for wounds or lesions on the limbs or face of their dog which will not heal. Affected dogs then go on to develop signs of severe depression, loss of appetite, and vomiting, quickly accompanied by acute injury to the kidneys, which is understood to have proven fatal in all but two cases to date.

The actual cause of acute kidney failure, and its link to the initial wounds, is a mystery. However, with your help, we hope to gather essential data to assist Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists with its investigation into the possible causes of the mystery illness.

Richard Newton, our Head of Disease Surveillance and Epidemiology, said: "Input from dog walkers is essential to progress the investigation, even if their dog wasn't affected. The questionnaire will provide vital information to help in identifying areas of highest risk, and possibly factors that contribute to the condition in this area of the New Forest."

It is important for dog owners walking their pets in the New Forest to be vigilant. If your dog develops the clinical signs as mentioned above, seek veterinary advice immediately.

If you are a dog owner and have any concerns or questions, please direct your enquiries to Forest Veterinary Clinic on 01425 652221 or by emailing: forestvetfb@btconnect.com. If you are a vet, please direct your enquiries to Anderson Moores on 01962 76792 or by emailing info@andersonmoores.com.

A hard copy of the New Forest questionnaire can be provided by emailing info@aht.org.uk.