Dog owners warned after case of deadly Alabama Rot confirmed in Dorset.
DOG owners in Dorset are being warned about the deadly disease Alabama Rot after a vet confirmed a case in the county.
Girling and Bowditch veterinary practice has confirmed a case of the disease – known as CRGV – in a dog that was walked in both West Chelborough and Ryme Intrinseca, near Yeovil.
The dog later died.
Alabama Rot causes damage to blood vessels of the skin and kidney.
An early sign of the disease is unexplained redness, sores or swelling of the skin – particularly on the paws or legs – but they can also be found on the body, face, tongue or mouth.
The disease can go on to cause fatal kidney failure and signs include vomiting, reduced hunger and tiredness.
It is not known what causes the disease so vets encourage owners to wash their pets – particularly their paws and tummies – after muddy walks.
People are urged to seek advice if they have any concerns.
Girling and Bowditch issued the following warning online: “We have had a confirmed case of cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy, otherwise known as Alabama Rot.
“This is a relatively new disease with confirmed cases throughout the country.
“This disease often manifests as skin lesions. Often there will be a scrape or ulcer to an area, often feet. There could be red areas with black centres often found on the legs and muzzle.
“This disease process can go on to affect the kidneys and cause kidney failure with a high probability of fatality. There is no telling which dogs will be affected and whether, if they develop skin lesions, they will go on to develop kidney failure.
“As far as we are aware it cannot be passed from one dog to another.”
For more information, contact your local vet.
All dog owners please be vigilant!