Dead dogs poison tests negative

Up to eight dogs are believed to have died

Tests to see if dogs that died after walking in woods in Nottinghamshire were poisoned have proved negative.

Natural England began an investigation after dog owners reported animals becoming ill after being walked on land near Sherwood Forest last month.

It said early tests had found no trace of the chemical poisons strychnine or cyanide.

Tests for other chemicals are under way but Natural England said it believed the cause was probably natural.

The deaths of four dogs are being investigated, although up to eight are believed to have died.

Owners have been advised to keep dogs on a lead in Haywood Oaks, Blidworth Woods, Sherwood Pines and Thieves Wood.

A spokesman said Natural England believed the poison had come from ticks or mites.

He confirmed there had been no further reports of dogs falling ill or dying after visiting the area over the past week.