A SECOND pet dog in Bolton has died of Alabama rot.

Now worried vets have sent out a warning to dog owners because of the rare disease.

Shannon Wilson had to have her four-year-old Shih Tzu, Paris, put down after it contracted the mysterious illness after a walk in Moses Gate, Farnworth.

The dog developed a wound on its paw which quickly became inflamed and swollen.

Ms Wilson, aged 23, took Paris to a Pet Hospital in Stretford, run by charity PDSA, but vets found that the dog had suffered from kidney failure and could not be saved.

Experts have warned any dog owners to seek veterinary help if their pet displays signs of lethargy, vomiting or loss of appetite, which could all be indications of the kidney failure associated with Alabama rot.

Ms Wilson, said: “We are bereft after losing Paris. We couldn’t have had a more loving dog. She deteriorated so quickly, it was incredibly frightening to see. We had no idea what the symptoms were and I’d never even heard of Alabama rot so it’s been a complete shock to all the family.

“I want to warn other pet owners of the dangers of this disease and to take extra care when out walking. Paris was only four and has gone far too soon.”

The incident follows the death of another dog, Mylo, which had to be put down after contracting Alabama rot following a walk through Leverhulme Park, Moses Gate, Milnthorpe Park and around Starmount and Blackshaw Brook in Bradley Fold.

Emma Deards, a vet working for PDSA, said: “Following this confirmed diagnosis of Alabama rot in Manchester, vets and owners are understandably concerned. Washing any mud off your dog after a wet or muddy walk may be of benefit but this has yet to be proven as an effective method of prevention.

“The important thing for owners to do is check their dogs after every walk for any unexplained redness or sores on the skin, particularly on their paws, legs, face, mouth or tongue. In many cases, the cause of these sores will not be Alabama Rot, but it’s important for a vet to examine your dog and rule it out.”

Although not much is currently known about Alabama rot, PDSA experts believe it to be more common in spring and winter and in muddy or woodland areas.