Alabama rot in dogs
Dec 5, 2024 2:42:23 AM
Alabama Rot or Cutaneous and Renal Glomerular Vasculopathy (CRGV) is back in the news. The Kennel Club is urging dog owners to be vigilant as the peak season for the Alabama rot comes upon us. The condition was first detected in the UK in 2012 and is most prevalent between November and May.
Research is ongoing and as yet is inconclusive as to the cause of the condition but once contracted by dogs the disease damages the lining of blood vessels in the skin and kidney, resulting in ulceration of the skin and kidney damage. Regrettably some affected dogs will go on to develop severe, acute kidney failure, which can be fatal.
Unfortunately, the condition can affect any dog regardless of breed or age. And sadly, dogs have contracted Alabama rot in many places across the UK, with cases reported in Berkshire, Cornwall, County Durham, the New Forest, Nottinghamshire, Norfolk, Surrey, Wiltshire, Worcestershire and Northern Ireland.
As yet, no evidence has been found to suggest that CRGV is caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, toxins, or radiation. There is speculation that it is related to mud or water, due to the higher prevalence in winter and spring, and relatively low case numbers seen in the summer.
Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club secretary said: “Although the disease is very rare, affecting an extremely low percentage of dogs in the UK, the condition is very serious and potentially life-threatening. It is therefore vital that owners understand and recognise the warning signs, especially as time plays a significant part in successfully treating the disease. We are asking owners to look out for any signs of Alabama rot during the winter months and to remember to take action right away. Any dogs with unexplained or concerning skin lesions which typically look like sores, ulcers, or red, swollen, bruised areas, commonly with an infected appearance should be taken to their vet as soon as possible. These skin changes are usually found on their paws or lower legs, but may also appear on their head, face or lower body. Dogs who have contracted the disease may also become tired, disinterested in food, or present other signs of illness like vomiting or diarrhoea.”
Thankfully, the disease is not always fatal and the earlier it is caught, the greater your dog’s chances of survival.
The best advice is to remain vigilant of your pets’ wellbeing, monitor appropriate knowledge sites such as the Blue Cross and the Kennel Club and if you are in any doubt, please contact your vet immediately.
Back
Recent Blogs
Keeping Your Furry Friend Safe and Happy During Halloween
Halloween approaches with its festive decorations, spooky costumes, and sweet treats. While humans eagerly anticipate the holiday, it can be a challenging time for our four-legged friends. From unfamiliar sights and sounds to potentially dangerous treats, Halloween can pose various risks to our beloved dogs.
While it might be tempting to dress up your dog in a cute or funny costume, always prioritize their comfort and well-being. Ensure that the costume is not restrictive, does not impede movement, and does not have small parts that could be swallowed. Allow your dog to become accustomed to the costume before the actual event, and keep a close eye on them while they're wearing it.
The vital role of responsible dog ownership.
A Pledge to Paws and Principles
Dogs have long been cherished companions, confidants, and sources of unconditional love for millions of people around the world. These faithful friends offer not only emotional support but also contribute significantly to our overall well-being. However, the joys of having a canine companion come with great responsibilities. Responsible dog ownership is not just a choice; it's an obligation we owe to our four-legged friends, our communities, and ourselves. In this blog, we will delve into the importance of responsible dog ownership and highlight the numerous benefits it brings to our lives.
My dog is a finicky eater...
You have a dog that has no appetite, is fussy and finicky with his food and you are fed up of trying every dog food brand under the sun. Here are our top tips for encouraging a better feeding regime
Finding the best places to walk your dog
The many benefits of dog walking are well documented and regular walks form part of our daily routine. But it is really easy to get into an unthinking pattern of where and how we walk our dogs. There are lots of adventures to be had out there with our canine companions so why not try something new?
