Dog Dies After River Paddle: Heatwave Warning Issued

A Somerset woman is issuing a warning to pet owners following the heartbreaking death of her five-year-old dog, Luna. The miniature labradoodle succumbed to acute hemorrhagic diarrhoea syndrome (AHDS) after paddling in the River Tone. While the exact cause remains unconfirmed, her owner believes the river may have played a role, especially given the recent heatwave which can increase bacteria and blue-green algae in waterways.

Veterinary practice Mount Vets in Wellington has reported an increase in dogs presenting with gastrointestinal diseases, ranging from mild to severe. Despite observing more cases, they have not yet identified a specific link to a single cause, geographical area, or river. They are actively collecting data to investigate potential connections, advising concerned owners to seek veterinary attention for their pets.