Increased patrols are taking place in Ipswich parks in response to a rise in reports online of suspected dog poisonings in the town.

Ipswich Borough Council is appealing for owners to stay vigilant and members of the public to report any suspected incidents. 

Last week, cases were reported at Christchurch Park, however, there has also been reports of incidents in Chantry Park. 

A council spokesperson said that they are taking the reports "very seriously" and asked people to contact the council and the police.

Council are asking people to remain vigilant and report anything to the police and them.Council are asking people to remain vigilant and report anything to the police and them. (Image: IBC)

They added: "By reporting the specific area of the park and when the suspected poisoning took place, an immediate investigation can be launched."

They have increased patrols in parks, but have not found anything suspicious yet.

Hannah Leys, assistant director of operations at Ipswich Borough Council, said: “We are very sorry to hear of these incidents in Ipswich and we want to reassure the public that the council is taking these reports very seriously.

“We want our parks and open spaces to be enjoyed safely by everybody and we can assure residents that the council along with other agencies are investigating these incidents of suspected poisoning.

“We share the concerns of dog owners and our parks team have been carrying out extra patrols and extending their checks to safeguard all our park visitors.

"They are also working with other teams within the Council and external agencies to monitor anything which may provide further information."

Dr Ian Barnes, a veterinarian based in Ipswich, said he and other vets across the town have been contacted by the council informing them that a full investigation is taking place around suspected poisoning. 

He said: "We have all heard of increasing cases of poisoning in Ipswich, and I myself have seen a couple who I suspect were due to rat poison being left on the ground in parks."

Isobel Woolnough, left, lost her poodle to suspect poisoning.Isobel Woolnough, left, lost her poodle to suspect poisoning. (Image: Isobel Woolnough)

Isobel Woolnough lost her poodle Tuppence, to suspected poisoning last week. 

She said that Tuppence ate something from the ground on Saturday, June 8, that was tasty, and by Monday, the poodle had already died. 

Mrs Woolnough has spoken to others and knows that there are many more cases of poisoning.

"I just wish that they (victims of poisoning) would come forward to see how many cases there actually are," she added. 

"I would warn everyone to remain vigilant and make sure you are looking after your dog at all times while they are in the park."