KEIGHLEY dog owners are being advised "not to panic" following a surge in cases of pets falling ill with gastroenteritis-like symptoms.

Aireworth Vets in the town – and other practices across the region – have reported a rise in the number of dogs being brought in with severe vomiting and diarrhoea.

The cause of the outbreak is unknown.

But the British Veterinary Association says that in most cases symptoms are mild, and that a rise in gastroenteritis during colder months is not unusual.

President, Dr Justine Shotton, said: "Vets see gastroenteritis cases relatively commonly in practice, but numbers seem to be increasing and are more widespread than usual.

"At this time, we can't speculate on what might be causing the symptoms.

"With gastroenteritis, most cases are mild, but some dogs may need hospitalisation. In the worst situations it can become haemorrhagic, leading to secondary complications or even death, but that's very rare."

She added: "Whilst pet owners are understandably worried, the cases may be part of a normal increase in gastroenteritis that vets see during the colder months.

"Our advice to concerned owners is to contact their local vet for prompt treatment if their dog shows any signs of illness."