An investigation has been launched into the incidents after they were reported to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and Natural England.

Cassie, a nine-year-old border collie, was the first dog to show signs of poisoning last Thursday and then, on Monday, a second dog was struck down with the same symptoms while out with its owner.

Both dogs died shortly after the symptoms appeared and the second dog's owner was taken to West Suffolk Hospital, in Bury St Edmunds, struggling for breath with a bad throat and chest.

Dennis and Sally Else, owners of Cassie, said doctors had told the hospitalised woman her condition could have been much more serious if she had taken in more of the poison.

Mr Else, from Botesdale, said: "They say that after a few hours the poison leaves the body, so you are left with a carcass without any evidence of it.

"As we are animal lovers it comes a bit hard. She was a dog that tended to go along and sniff everything.

"She was struggling for breath with her tongue hanging out and blood coming out of her mouth."

Mr Else said they also had a similar experience last year when one of their ponies was treated for unknown poisoning, but it survived the experience.

A spokesman for Natural England confirmed it was investigating the suspected animal poisonings with the incident involving the woman being investigated by the HSE.

"At this stage, it is important to say that, until these investigations have been completed, we cannot state whether a poisonous pesticide is involved.

"Additionally, the source of any suspected pesticide poisoning is part of the ongoing investigation.

"Should pesticides be implicated, the Pesticide Safety Directorate would then take forward any necessary actions in liaison with HSE."

Dog owners are advised to keep their pets on a lead and prevent them from eating or putting anything in their mouths while being walked.

To report further incidents, call 0800 321600 or visit www.naturalengland.org.uk

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