A WARNING has been issued to dog owners after a large amounts of palm oil has washed up in New Brighton.

Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team released the warning on Facebook after spotting a substance believed to be palm oil on the beach.

A natural edible vegetable oil, palm oil is commonly used in food processing but its production can be linked to a number of environmental issues.

When it is legally released at sea by ships, palm oil can become contaminated with other waste products and as it is edible, animals are attracted to it but they can become ill after coming into contact with it.

A spokesman from the Coastguard said: "Laboratory testing has shown that this substance is a non-toxic, degraded edible oil or fat.

"However, there have been reports of dogs becoming seriously ill after ingesting the substance.

"Some dogs that have consumed small quantities of palm oil have suffered from vomiting and diarrhoea, which has led to severe dehydration.

"Some dogs that have eaten larger amounts of the substance have suffered a range of effects including kidney damage, liver failure and blockages of the gut.

"In some instances this has resulted in the dog needing to be put down.

"If you’re heading to the beach please look out for palm oil.

"Although the substance has been described as non-toxic, given the reports about dogs becoming ill, it is suggested that children and pets should be kept away from the deposits.

"If you come into contact with the substance, wash it off with soap or shower gel and wash your clothes.

"If you believe your dog has been in contact with the substance and are concerned about their health, please contact your vet as soon as possible."