Pet owners in the UK are being warned about a rare but highly lethal disease affecting dogs, known as Alabama Rot, or Cutaneous and Renal Glomerular Vasculopathy (CRGV). Since its identification in the UK in 2012, this condition has resulted in the deaths of hundreds of dogs, with 19 cases reported in the past year alone.
The disease primarily damages blood vessels in the skin and kidneys, leading to painful skin lesions that can escalate to acute kidney failure within just a few days. Alarmingly, the mortality rate for Alabama Rot stands at 90%, impacting dogs of all breeds, ages, and sizes.
Understanding the Risks and Symptoms
Dr Aimee Warner, a veterinarian at Waggel, emphasizes the importance of awareness among dog owners. “Alabama Rot remains rare, but it is a serious condition that every dog owner should know about,” she states. According to Dr Warner, cases typically surge between November and May, particularly after prolonged wet weather when dogs are likely to traverse muddy woodland areas.
First identified in greyhounds in the United States in the 1970s, Alabama Rot was only detected in the UK in 2012, leading to over 300 fatalities since then. While the precise cause of the disease remains unknown, ongoing research suggests a potential seasonal trigger associated with muddy environments.
The disease manifests through symptoms such as unexplained sores or ulcers, swelling in the face or abdomen, localized hair loss, and excessive licking of specific areas. “The first sign is usually a skin sore that cannot be explained by an injury,” Dr Warner explains. These lesions often appear as patches of red skin or ulcers, commonly on the lower legs or paws, but they can also develop on the face, tongue, or belly.
Prevention and Prompt Action
Infected dogs may experience kidney failure just days after showing initial symptoms. Signs of this serious progression include severe lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, changes in drinking habits, and reduced urination.
While there is currently no foolproof method to prevent Alabama Rot, Dr Warner advises dog owners to wash mud off their pets’ legs and paws after woodland walks. Regularly checking their skin for unexplained sores and seeking immediate veterinary consultation for any concerning lesions is crucial.
“The overall risk remains low, and thousands of dogs walk safely in the countryside every day,” Dr Warner reassures. “But awareness is key. Knowing what to look for could make the difference between catching this early and missing crucial treatment time.”
As dog owners remain vigilant, the hope is that increased awareness will lead to earlier detection and better outcomes for affected pets.
