The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has warned that animal owners in flood-stricken areas need to be aware of the new dangers posed by receding flood waters.

Flood waters are receding in most parts of the South where the wettest winter on record led to widespread flooding between Christmas and mid-February. Even so, two severe flood warnings – indicating a potential danger to life – remain in force in the South West and Met Office forecasters said the region is in for more heavy rain this week.

Vets warned on Tuesday that, although waters are beginning to subside, the danger to pets and livestock remains. In areas where water has been contaminated by sewage, chemicals and other waste, farmers and pet owners will need to remain vigilant about potential health threats to their animals.

BVA President and vet Robin Hargreaves said commented, "The terrible flooding has devastated many areas and it will be a huge relief for residents to see the waters subside. Unfortunately, the challenges for animal owners remain, as contaminated water continues to pose a threat to pets and livestock."

Owners should try to keep their animals from drinking contaminated water, as effluent and bacteria can be harmful, the BVA president said. He also recommended farmers and those with animals check with their vet to ensure all vaccinations are up to date.

Hargreaves continued, "Farmers need to consider the risks posed by contamination both to drinking water and feed for their livestock. Both silage and forage may have been contaminated by chemicals or waste and should not be fed to animals if they show signs of spoilage or mould. If alternative water or feed is not available it may be best to consider selling animals and reinvesting when conditions improve."

As well as checking with their vet, animal owners in affected areas are advised to get in touch with their environmental health team, who should be in a position to advise on local levels of contamination.