A DOG has died after contracting the deadly disease Alabama Rot.

The Labrador is believed to have contracted the disease at either Heaton Park, Shaw Cricket Club fields or Crompton Moor.

His owner says her dog first displayed the symptoms the day after a walk in Heaton Park.

Alabama Rot, a disease that damages blood vessels in the skin and kidney, can cause clotting and kidney failure.

The cause of Alabama Rot is currently unknown, but it is thought that the disease is picked up from muddy walks.

Vets recommend that dog owners wash off woodland mud as soon as possible, and keep an eye on their pet for and sores or lesions on their skin so they can be treated quickly.

David Walker, the UK’s leading expert on the condition, from veterinary specialist Anderson Moores, previously said: “We are now in the time of year when cases are most common.

“Further confirmed cases mean it is understandably very worrying for dog owners; however, this disease is still very rare, so we’re advising dog owners to remain calm but vigilant, and seek advice from their local vet if their dog develops unexplained skin lesions.

“While there is currently no known way to prevent a dog from contracting the disease, any concerned dog owners should visit www.vets4pets.com/stop-alabama-rot/ for advice and a map of confirmed cases.”

Three new cases of Alabama Rot have been confirmed this year by the specialist referral centre, Anderson Moores, based in Winchester.

The latest confirmed cases are located in Bolton, Oldham, and Bridgwater in Somerset.

In total, there have been 207 confirmed cases of the disease across the UK since 2012.

Contact your vet if you are concerned about Alabama Rot.