A FAMILY fear their beloved pet dog may have been intentionally poisoned – just four years after their other dog died from similar injuries.

Police have confirmed they are aware of the incident and investigations continue after the family were forced to watch Vinny die in front of their eyes on June 16.

In a post published on Facebook, a relative of the family said: "My sister lost the second of her dogs to an inconceivable act by another human being. 

"Her dogs were both poisoned at around one year of age but four years apart. 

"Both dogs suffered an excruciating death.

"It started with general lethargy, followed by diarrhoea and severe vomiting that even medication couldn't prevent.

"They couldn't eat or drink as this only exacerbated their symptoms and caused them more pain. 

"Oscar was put to sleep once the blood in his body had started to leak from his organs and blood vessels into his body's cavities causing his whole body to swell to almost double its size. 

"Vinny passed in his sleep on Thursday after a two day battle with vets desperately trying to save his life. 

"This was incredibly painful for them to go through and incredibly painful for all concerned to watch."

The family, who have two young children, have been left heartbroken by the news. 

The post added: "It's clear to us and indeed the vet and the RSPCA have confirmed that this is too much of a coincidence. 

"It seems someone has for whatever reason singled my sister out and deliberately poisoned her dogs. 

"The reason I share this with you is because I believe that people need to know if there is somebody in their community capable of such a torturous act.

"My sister lives in Croft in Warrington. 

"She only walked her dogs on well known and well used dog walking routes. 

"When not with my sister the dogs were outside in her garden where they should have been safe. 

"Keep a close eye on your pets. You wouldn't wish the pain and suffering experienced by these gorgeous dogs on your worst enemy."