REPORTS of dogs being infected by a deadly flesh-eating disease in the Lickey Hills are unconfirmed, says Birmingham Dogs Home.

Rumours circulating on social media claimed a collie cross had been put to sleep after developing a sore on her leg, two days after visiting Lickey Hills Country Park.

Birmingham Dogs Home confirmed it had received a number of reports on social media, but stressed the case was unconfirmed.

A spokesman said: "We were contacted by a number of people via other facebook pages in regards to a case of Alabama Rot up Lickey Hills, however we must stress that this is not a confirmed case.

"We haven’t ourselves seen any cases of Alabama Rot, as it still is a very rare disease, but a case has been confirmed in Cannock Case in recent months, which is very close to home.

"We are urging dog owners to be vigilant, wash their dogs after muddy walks and examine their dogs regularly to spot anything usual.

"Should they be worried about their dogs they should consult a vet as soon as possible."

Symptoms of Alabama Rot include skin lesions, ulcers and sores on the paws, legs, body or mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite and lethargy. Its cause is still unknown.

Clent Hills Vet in Bromsgrove ensured it has not dealt with any confirmed or suspected cases.