EXPERTS are appealing for help in identifying the cause of a mystery illness which has killed several dogs.

The Animal Health Trust (AHT), a veterinary charity, is now investigating following the deaths of dogs in Norfolk and Nottinghamshire.

Dog owners who have walked their dogs in Thetford Forest, on the Sandringham Estate, in Clumber Park or Sherwood Forest since the beginning of August are being asked to help.

Peter Webbon, chief executive of the AHT, said: “We need the help of dog owners to gather information about this mysterious seasonal illness which is causing a number of dogs to become seriously ill.

“The illness comes on very quickly, usually within 24 hours, and causes vomiting, diarrhoea and lethargy.

“We are asking dog owners who have walked their dogs in any of the four sites to fill in a questionnaire – regardless of whether your dog was taken ill or not.”

By hearing from owners of dogs who did not become ill it helps the charity discount various factors.

Mr Webbon added: “Without the help of dog owners we won’t get to the bottom of this. We really need people to fill in these questionnaires as soon as possible.

“There were cases of this illness at this time last year which ceased once the weather turned colder. We need to get information from people now so we can try to be better prepared next year.”

The questionnaire is available at www.aht.org.uk or email info@aht.org.uk with the name of the site and email or postal address for a hard copy.

To report an incidence of the illness in another area email details to info@aht.org.uk.

The AHT has established a Seasonal Canine Illness fund and is asking for donations towards the cost of its investigation.

To donate visit www.aht.org.uk.