A PET dog died from acute shock just hours after eating a mystery substance on a Wirral beach.

The labrador consumed the “green slime” and was rushed to a vet that evening with vomiting and diarrhoea.

The animal later died from acute shock, according to Rob McNulty from Hoylake Vets.

Mr McNulty said: “The owner had taken his two dogs for a walk and both were seen sniffing around this green slime.

"He saw one of the dogs eat something and it was later plagued with severe vomiting and diarrhoea.

"Unfortunately, the labrador died in the early hours the next morning.

“Of course, we cannot say for certain that he died as a result of eating the substance but I advised the owner to get in touch with environmental health officers to clear it up.”

The substance has since been removed and sent for scientific testing to ascertain what it actually is.

A Wirral Council spokeswoman said: “We attended the site on Monday after a member of the public reported a suspect substance on the beach.

"The substance was immediately cleaned up thoroughly by council staff and the following day a sample was sent to the Public Analyst for examination.

"We expect to have a report in ten to 14 days.”

The Public Analyst is a body of highly-skilled scientists who make up the frontline of the UK's protection service where chemical analysis and tests are needed.