The RSPCA has issued advice to dog owners in Ipswich following a spate of suspected poisonings being reported in the town's parks.

Ipswich Borough Council is treating reports of dogs being poisoned "very seriously" as several owners said their pets fell ill soon after going on walks.

The RSPCA said that if you think your dog has been poisoned, stay calm and contact your vet immediately. 

While waiting for the vet, do not attempt to treat or medicate the dog yourself, as some medicines humans might use may be poisonous to dogs. 

Normal human drugs such as paracetamol and oral contraceptives, blue-green algae, fungi, conkers, acorns, rock salt and xylitol (an artificial sweetener) are all poisonous to dogs and should be kept away from them. 

RSPCA suggest to never try and make your dog vomit.The RSPCA suggests to never try and make your dog vomit. (Image: Google Maps)

The advice added: "Never attempt to make dogs vomit. Don't use salt water as it's extremely dangerous."

Furthermore, if the dog's skin or fur is contaminated, then shower them with a mild shampoo. 

Keep your dog away from other animals to avoid any spreading of the poison.

Finally, it advises dog owners to ensure their pets are not in an area overhung by poisonous plants and to change their water supply regularly.

Ipswich Borough Council are asking people to report poisoning incidents to them.Ipswich Borough Council is asking people to report poisoning incidents (Image: Newsquest)

Ipswich has recently seen a rise in reports of dog poisoning incidents in Christchurch Park and Chantry Park.

The borough council is currently asking for people to report incidents to the local authority directly and to the police so that they can begin an investigation into the matter.

A spokesperson for Suffolk police said: "By reporting the specific area of the park and when the suspected poisoning took place, an immediate investigation can be launched."

Officers have increased patrols in parks, but have not found anything suspicious at this time.

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."