DOG owners in the New Forest have been warned to be on their guard following another suspected case of Alabama Rot.

Baxter, an eight-year-old cocker spaniel from Lymington, has become the latest victim of the disease, which is thought to have killed at least nine dogs in the Forest.

The much-loved pooch died soon after his owner, Jennie Davies, noticed he had an injured paw.

Her vet carried out blood tests and put Baxter on antibiotics.

Further tests taken a few days later showed strong indications of kidney failure, which is a classic symptom of Alabama Rot.

Baxter was taken to the Hursley-based veterinary practice Anderson Moores, which specialises in treating animals with the disease. Sadly, he died three days later.

Mrs Davies said: “It was such a nasty shock. I'm a widow and he has been my companion for eight-and-a-half years. I got him a year-and-a-half after my husband died.

“I want people to be aware that the illness is out there, be vigilant and check that their dogs don't have sores.”

Writing on social media she added: “RIP Baxter - you were my wonderful companion and friend so loyal but so lively and mischievous and full of life. Another victim to Alabama Rot.”

Baxter was exercised at several places in the Forest. Mrs Davies said she mostly walked him along the sea wall between Lymington and Keyhaven.

They also went for walks in Longslade Bottom, Wilverley Enclosure and Setley.

Heather Gould, chairman of the New Forest Dog Owners' Group (NFDOG), advised dog owners to remain vigilant.

She said: “They should watch their dogs, wash them if they are muddy and look for any sores or lesions. If they're worried they should go to the vet at the earliest opportunity.”

New research is being carried out in a bid to find a cure for the deadly disease, the cause of which is unknown.

Some experts believe it may be triggered by a rare form of E.coli living in rotting vegetation or in woodland waters such as streams or ponds, which could explain why so many cases have occurred in the New Forest.

By the end of last year the area had seen at least 15 confirmed cases, including eight deaths, and 11 unconfirmed cases.

Pets that died after being walked in the Forest include three-year-old Harley, who became ill after cutting his leg in the Holmsley area. Sarah Thair's fox terrier Tegan also succumbed to the toxin.

Several cases have also been reported in other parts of the UK, including Cornwall and Yorkshire.