A rise in the number of slugs and snails could prove fatal to dogs if they eat them, vets are warning.

Although dogs do not eat slugs or snails on purpose, they may ingest them accidentally if they fall into their bowls or attach onto bones or toys.

Symptoms include coughing, lethargy, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness and paralysis.

Slugs and snails are mostly found in warm, damp areas such as footpaths on field boundaries where there are ditches and woodland areas; two common dog walking locations.

Source: bbc news