Dog owners in the United Kingdom are being urged to exercise caution as new cases of a deadly disease known as Alabama Rot are reported. This rare condition, scientifically termed Cutaneous and Renal Glomerular Vasculopathy (CRGV), has resulted in the deaths of hundreds of dogs since its first detection in the UK in 2012. Last year alone, 19 cases were documented, raising alarms among veterinary professionals.
Alabama Rot primarily affects the blood vessels in the skin and kidneys, leading to painful skin lesions that can escalate to acute kidney failure within days. The disease carries a shocking 90% mortality rate, impacting dogs of all breeds, ages, and sizes.
Understanding the Threat
Dr. Aimee Warner, a resident veterinarian at Waggel, stresses 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. The disease tends to peak between November and May, often following periods of prolonged wet weather, particularly when dogs are exposed to muddy woodland areas.
Originally identified in greyhounds in the United States during the 1970s, Alabama Rot was first confirmed in the UK in 2012. Since then, over 300 fatalities have been attributed to the disease. Although extensive research has been conducted, the precise cause of Alabama Rot remains elusive. Scientists suspect a seasonal trigger associated with muddy woodland environments might play a role.
The condition causes blood clots to form in the smallest blood vessels of dogs, which can lead to various symptoms. These may include unexplained sores or ulcers, swelling in the face, muzzle, or abdomen, localized hair loss, and excessive licking of a particular spot.
Recognizing Symptoms and Taking Action
According to Dr. Warner, the initial sign of Alabama Rot is typically a skin sore that is not linked to any known injury. “These lesions often start as a patch of red skin or an ulcer,” she explains. They most commonly appear on the lower legs or paws, but can also develop on the face, tongue, or belly.
Once a dog is infected, kidney failure can manifest within days. Symptoms to watch for 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 recommends several precautionary steps. Washing mud off a dog’s legs and paws after walks in wet, wooded areas is crucial. Regularly checking a dog’s skin for unexplained sores and seeking immediate veterinary attention for any concerning lesions can significantly improve outcomes.
“The overall risk remains low, and thousands of dogs walk safely in the countryside every day,” Dr. Warner adds. “But awareness is key. Knowing what to look for could make the difference between catching this early and missing crucial treatment time.”
As Alabama Rot continues to raise concerns among dog owners, vigilance and education remain essential tools in the fight against this potentially fatal disease.
