DOG owners are being warned to take extra care after suspected pet poisonings near a cricket pitch.

Two pooches suffering symptoms have been reported to the RSPCA, but there are fears more have fallen ill.

The RSPCA is warning dog owners to avoid the area around the pitch at Eight Ash Green Cricket Club in Spring Lane, Fordham Heath.

Inspector Caroline Richardson said: “The symptoms include dogs licking their feet more than usual, blistered tongues, severe vomiting, lethargy and some of the dogs have collapsed.

“We do not want to scare dog owners but we would encourage them to avoid the area if possible until we know more and get them to a vets straight away if they show any signs of being unwell.”

One owner’s two dogs have both suffered severe sickness after walking in the field.

The woman, who did not want to be named, has spent more than £1,000 on vet bills after one of fell ill in May and again last week.

Her other dog was also sick last week and suffered a fit.

The worried owner said: “He was having trouble breathing, his tongue and mouth were blistered and he collapsed. It was awful.

“I got him to the vets where he was put on a drip and kept in. The vet said it looked like poisoning but fortunately it hasn’t affected his liver or kidney function.”

She added: “I’ve spoken to other owners whose dogs have been sick and collapsed too after walking around the field near the cricket pitch. I won’t be taking my dogs round there until I know it’s safe.”

If a dog shows symptoms it should be take it to a vet immediately with a sample of what it has eaten or drunk.

The RSPCA wants to hear from anyone whose pet has suffered similar symptoms after walking in the area.

Richard Polley, chairman of the cricket club, said: "We do not use any chemicals in preparing the ground which are hardful to animals or wildlife."

Anyone with information should call 0300 123 8018.