Government veterinary surgeons have carried out a post mortem examination on a dog that is believed to have been poisoned after walking along a footpath.

The Veterinary Laboratories Agency (VLA) in Thirsk, North Yorkshire, received the body of the animal yesterday. The result of the examination has not yet been released.

The VLA is working for Natural England, which is spearheading the investigation along with North Yorkshire Police and the RSPCA.

It is one of 11 dogs that have died since May 20 after being exercised along a footpath between Station Road and Park Road, Cross Hills, near Skipton. Experts believe up to 16 animals could have been affected.

The area is agricultural land with allotments and hen huts and near to some housing and a pond.

Simon Crossley, North Yorkshire Police wildlife crime officer, said they suspected that illicit or malicious use of poisons or pesticides may be involved.

A spokesman for Natural England said it investigated the deaths of animals and wildlife where there was a strong possibility that the death related to pesticides or chemical poisoning.

Any evidence from the forensic work would be given to police and anyone concerned that their animal had become ill should contact a vet.

“We would advise people to keep their dogs under close control or on a lead if they do walk in the area and to follow any on-site information,” she said.

Joanne Swarbrick, of Cross Hills, took her boyfriend’s two-year-old Doberman called Harvey for a walk on Wednesday, May 25, and next saw him at about noon.

She said: “He was perfectly fine when I left and later I walked into the house to find him dead on the floor.

“It looked like he had a fit because there were scratches on the floor where we found him lying. I don’t think we’ll ever get that image out of our heads, and I don’t know if we’ll ever come to terms with it.”

People suspicious about the death of their dog should telephone Craven Council’s environmental protection service on (01756) 700600.

  • Read the full story in Thursday's T&A