DOG owners are being warned to be vigilant following new cases of suspected Alabama Rot reported in dogs walked in the Calne area.
There are reports that three dogs, believed to have been walked at the popular dog walking area the Gallops at Beckhampton, have been recently confirmed as suffering from Alabama Rot.
Alabama Rot is a potentially fatal disease affecting dogs across the United Kingdom. Alabama rot is also known as CRGV, which stands for Cutaneous and Renal Glomerular Vasculopathy. CRGV is a disease that is often quick to cause clinical deterioration in those dogs affected by it.
The rare disease attacks the kidneys of dogs and can affect all breeds, ages and weights. There have been 292 confirmed cases since the illness was discovered in the UK in 2012.
Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists say: 'Within a matter of days, this disease can sometimes cause serious organ damage, including kidney failure. Unfortunately, it isn’t yet known what causes this often fatal disease or exactly how to cure it. It’s important to use what we do know about this disease to protect our dogs as much as possible and it’s important to be able to recognise possible Alabama Rot symptoms. If you suspect your dog may have CRGV, the best thing you can do for them is to act fast. A more favourable outcome may be possible with early recognition.
'As CRGV is such a rapidly progressing disease, it’s important to be aware of the first signs that something may be wrong with your dog.
'If your dog loves walking in or rolling around in the mud, or you’ve been walking them through wooded or muddy areas, be on the lookout for these signs of CRGV especially between the months of November and May. Wash them off after their walk and over the next few days check them for sores. Pay attention to your dog’s legs and paws, as well as their body, face, and tongue.'
The following are typical signs of Alabama rot according to the RSPCA: Skin sores, visible swelling, red patch or skin defects not caused by a known injury. These skin lesions typically appear below the knee or elbow, and occasionally on the face or at the bottom of the chest or abdomen. Changes in appetite - reduced appetite, drinking more, vomiting and lethargy are signs of acute kidney injury.
Calne dog walking company, Muddy Paws posted on social media: "I’ve received a few messages and have seen on Facebook some urgent news regarding Alabama Rot.Unfortunately, 3 cases have been confirmed in Calne and believed to have been contracted at the gallops. Please avoid this area by all means and watch out for any signs or symptoms in your dogs and immediately contact your vets if you do spot any."
