Experts at Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists in Hampshire have confirmed the suspected cases of Cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy (CRGV) that led to the death of one dog and serious illness of two others, following walks at the Gallops in Beckhampton and in the Avebury area.
In January, we brought you the sad news that three dogs were believed to have been affected by the deadly disease after being walked at the popular dog walking areas.
The Gallops area closed to dog walkers shortly after the news broke but have since re-opened.
Two of the dogs were from the same family, they were initially treated at Anderson Moores vets. Sadly, one of the dogs died but the other was transferred to Royal Veterinary College in London and following intensive treatment, is now home - though continues to need extensive medication.
The latest incidents of the disease, which is also known as Alabama Rot, have only been confirmed now following testing.
Experts at Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists in Hampshire say locations of confirmed cases include Wiltshire, Surrey, Berkshire, Staffordshire, Buckinghamshire and Herefordshire, Dorset and a case from London. The UK has now seen 318 confirmed cases, with 10 confirmed in 2024 so far.
Josh Walker, co-lead of the practice’s CRGV research programme, said: “We’re advising dog owners across the country to remain calm, but vigilant and seek advice from their vets if their dog develops unexplained skin lesions.”
CRGV affects the kidneys and currently has a 90% mortality rate. A total of 294 incidents have now been recorded since the disease was first detected 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.
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