Dog owners have been warned after lumps of toxic palm oil have washed up on a Cumbrian beach.
Furness Coastguard issued the warning after lumps of the substance – known as bergs – were found on Haverigg shore.
While it is harmless to humans and is regularly used in food, it is toxic to dogs and can be fatal if ingested without immediate treatment.
The Coastguard added that the substance could also wash up on Walney beaches and surrounding areas.
Furness Coastguard said: “The solidified palm oil on beaches is teaming in toxic bacteria. It’s irresistible to dogs – who then quickly get ill after eating it and without immediate treatment can quickly die.
“If your dogs do eat palm oil, please take them to a vets asap. Sometimes it almost looks like polystyrene. It can be in massive chunks too so just keep an eye out. “
