DOG owners are being warned that a rare but serious condition is suspected to have affected some local pets following muddy walks.

Potential cases of Alabama rot, which dogs seem to develop in rare instances after being muddy woodlands, have been reported and circulating in local areas.

READ MORE: These four Reading neighbourhoods still have high Covid rates - but cases are dropping in EVERY area

Burghfield and Goring Veterinary Surgeries posted an update after social media posts were shared amongst various Facebook groups to warn people that a dog had died after developing the illness.

Burghfield and Goring Veterinary Surgeries said: "We haven't had any diagnosed cases of Alabama rot, but we are aware that there are suspected cases in the local area.

"Cases usually present with multiple large lesions on the feet/extremities and muzzle, this can progress to lethargy, inappetence and a high temperature.

"Please remember Alabama rot remains extremely rare and most sores on the feet /muzzle are due to injury /bites or stings.

PICTURED: Dog owners are being advised to clean their dogs paws after muddy walks. Stock image

PICTURED: Dog owners are being advised to clean their dogs' paws after muddy walks. Stock image

READ MORE: One arrest, drugs seized and Covid breach tickets issued during evening police patrol

"We unfortunately do not know the cause of Alabama rot, but there seems to be a link with cases and recent walks in wet muddy woodlands.

"Please wash your dogs' feet as a precaution after walking them in these areas.

"If you are particularly worried please follow the link for some helpful information from Anderson Moores veterinary specialists."