Police have urged the public to avoid farmland near Muir of Ord in the Highlands after the death of a dog thought to be caused by a banned pesticide.
Traces of a banned pesticide has been detected in the vicinity of Faebait Farm, according to Police Scotland.
Following the death of the local dog, searches were carried out in the vicinity of the farm near Muir of Ord on Thursday (March 15).
However, after consultation with the Scottish Government Rural Payments Directorate, Police Scotland is now requesting that dog walkers and members of the public do not enter the fields in the area of Faebait Farm or the immediate vicinity until further notice.
Inspector Mike Middlehurst said this is a "precautionary request" until the investigation is complete.
"Traces of a banned pesticide has been detected in the area and we do not wish a member of the public, another dog or any other animal to become unwell where it can be avoided," he said.
"I can confirm that the dog that died belonged to the owners of Faebait Farm.
"They are co-operating fully with the investigation and support this request to other members of the public and dog owners."
It is requested that anybody who has information about banned pesticide possession or misuse contact Police Scotland immediately on 101 or pass on information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
