A warning has gone out to dog owners in Ashby after a 'blue substance' was found in sausages scattered near the Potter's Grange estate.

Woodward Veterinary Surgery raised concerns this week when a West Highland Terrier named Poppy was brought in by the dog's owner.

Poppy had begun eating the sausages on an area of grass, only for the owner to notice they were partly blue in colour.

It is now thought they were placed there as rat poison - but the Ashby vets says they could easily be eaten by dogs as well.

The Woodward Surgery posted: "We have had a patient brought into us this morning after consuming one of these sausages containing a blue substance, on their morning walk.

"These were found on one of the grass areas.

"For anyone walking on the Potter's Grange estate in Ashby, please keep a close eye on your pet and if you notice any signs of unexpected illness, please seek veterinary advice as soon as possible."

Woodward Veterinary Surgery would not comment further when contacted by Ashby Nub News due to 'data privacy issues'.

But the practice's Clincial Director, Sam Barton told BBC East Midlands Today: "We don't exactly know what the substance is, but from its appearance, we suspect it could be a rat bait of some sort.

"That has the potential to be quite serious.

The Ashby vets posted a photo of the sausages online. Photo: Woodward Veterinary Surgery

"That can cause issues with spontaneous bleeding, in its very worst form, it can be potentially fatal.

"These toxins can cause vomiting and diarrhea, in some instances there can be seizures.

"Any strange signs are well worth investigating.

"We just ask dog owner's to be particularly vigilant when they walking them - the Potter's Grange estate is local to us.

"If you see anything, try and discourage the dogs from scavenging, although that can be easier said than done.

"Poppy's done very well and has been allowed home - we will continue to monitor to check there are no issues further down the line which may have a delayed response.

"Generally, she's doing very well, bless her."