Key symptoms of deadly dog disease explained as cases spike across the UK
There's nothing more heartbreaking than seeing our pets in pain, so protecting them as soon as you see a change in their behaviour could be essential for their health and wellbeing.
Dog owners are being warned about a deadly disease named Alabama Rot, following a spike in cases across the UK recently. 308 dogs have sadly died from the serious disease since 2012. 10 cases have been identified in the UK so far this year, according to Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists.
Sadly, it is very serious if your canine gets the disease as it can cause blood clots and skin lesions which could lead to kidney failure. The illness has been linked to wet and muddy conditions and is believed to spike in rainy and damp weather conditions. There are a few symptoms that dog owners should be on the lookout for that could be a sign of the condition.
A spokesperson for the RSPCA said: "The cause of the disease is currently unknown, though research is ongoing. Since December 2012, a small number of cases have been seen throughout the UK.
"Most reports come from pet owners who walk their dogs in the countryside, and most cases are reported during winter and spring. Generally, cases are rare in the summer months compared to the colder months."
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It is recommended that dog walkers wash off all the mud off their pet following a wet, muddy walk - especially if you have gone through a woodland area. While no direct cause has been identified yet, scientists are trying to find out. We know that most cases happen in winter and spring and it is not contagious. The disease does not discriminate in terms of age or body size.
A sign in Lower Kingswood, Surrey, has been put up to warn dog owners (Surrey Advertiser - Grahame Larter)What are the symptoms of Alabama Rot?
The RSPCA says any dog owner who is concerned that they dog may been suffering from Alabama Rot should take them to the vet immediately. There is no way to treat the disease, which is why early intervention is key.
Your pet may have the illness but you cannot see the signs; it usually takes 10 days to appear on the body. Key signs include swelling, red patches on the skin, or skin issues or sores that are not from an injury. Kidney failure can happen straight after sores appear on a dog, so it is key to get treatment immediately.
However, it can be hard to know what is Alabama Rot and what isn't; not all skin lesions on your pet will mean your dog has the condition, and many cases of kidney failure will be down to another reason as well.
Another symptom of Alabama Rot is a dog's unusual change in appetite. If you pet if drinking a lot more than usual or does not want to eat as much, this should be taken seriously. What's more, if your dog is vomiting and showing signs of lack of energy these could also be symptoms.
The RSPCA added: "If you're concerned that your dog may be suffering, we urge that you contact your vet immediately for further advice. If it is Alabama Rot, early recognition and aggressive management are likely to have the best results."
For more information visit your vet or find advice on the RSPCA website.
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