DOG owners are being urged to remain vigilant following reports of poisonings in Holmes Chapel.

The call follows two separate reports of dogs being poisoned in the village.

A Cheshire Police spokesman said: “The first incident occurred on Sunday, May 5 when a King Charles spaniel ingested food which is believed to have been thrown over the fence into the family garden on Severn Way.

“The dog became unwell shortly after eating the food and was taken to the vets.

“Sadly, despite the best efforts of the veterinary staff, the dog has since passed away.

“The second incident is believed to have taken place sometime on Wednesday, May 8 when a springer spaniel collapsed at an address on Selkirk Way.

“The dog was quickly taken to the vets and has thankfully since recovered.

“Inquiries in relation to both cases are ongoing and initial indications from veterinary staff suggest that the dogs may have been poisoned.”

PC Claire Lloyd said: “Losing a family pet is a devastating experience for anyone, and to hear that your dog may have been poisoned is even more distressing.

“Enquiries in relation to these two incidents are ongoing and we are currently trying to establish exactly what has taken place.

“While this investigation is ongoing, we would advise all dog owners to keep an eye on their pets and to contact a vet if they notice any unusual symptoms.

“I would also urge residents to contact us on 101 if they notice any suspicious activity.”

Anyone with information which may help the ongoing investigation should call Cheshire Police on 101, quoting IML 394364, give the details via cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.