DOG owners are being warned about an outbreak of a mystery illness affecting pets following suspected cases of deadly Alabama Rot.

Several unconfirmed cases of the condition with similar symptoms have been reported by people who walk their dogs in Leigh, Tyldesley and Atherton.

Gary Hallows, from Tyldesley, wants to warn other dog owners after his cocker spaniel Sally began showing symptoms of the illness, which include kidney failure, vomiting and skin lesions.

Mr Hallows said: “The vet has said that Sally has similar symptoms to Alabama Rot, although he can’t confirm it is the disease as that can only be done after a post mortem examination, but he doesn’t think she will survive.”

Sally, who is now in quarantine at The Animal Trust in Bolton, fell ill just over a week ago.

“I just can’t believe that something like this is happening and nothing is being done about it,” he said.

My Pets Vets, in Twist Lane in Leigh, has issued advice on its own Facebook page.

It reads: “We believe that we have seen four cases of this condition over the last few weeks, sadly only one of these dogs has survived.

“All four dogs had been walked in and around Lilford Woods, along with other wooded areas.

“We are awaiting test results which may provide further information.”

KNOW THE SIGNS OF ALABAMA ROT

DOG owners are being advised to get any skin lesions they find on their pets checked out by a vet.

Jonathon Hart, from Atherton Veterinary Centre, has seen one suspected case of the condition.

He said: “Reported cases seem to be concentrated in wooded areas so wash your dog down after a walk, get all the mud off and if you notice any skin lesions, get them checked out straight away.

“The number of dogs presenting with the condition are in the minority but unfortunately between 80 and 90 per cent of those that do get it will die.”