by Joe Jeffrey
Killer kidney disease strikes 52 dogs in first recorded outbreak in UK
CaravanTimes is today issuing a warning to caravan owners with four-legged friends, as at least 52 dogs have died after contracting horrific flesh-eating disease, Alabama rot – the first outbreak of its kind to be reported in the UK.
Dog owners are now being warned to look out for lesions on their dog’s legs amongst other symptoms in order to act quickly and seek veterinary medical advice.
Unknown in the UK until 2012, incidents of Alabama rot – also known as cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy (CRGV) – have since been reported in Hampshire, Somerset, County Durham and across other parts of England and Wales according to a report published yesterday in the journal, Veterinary Record. It is thought there have been over 100 incidents reports by vets.
Often known in the US for affecting only greyhounds, the UK strain of Alabama rot is less discriminatory, infection various breeds including English springer spaniels, whippets and Labradors.
It is not known why the disease has surfaced over the past few years, but vets are urging dog owners across the country to remain vigilant and stay alert to symptoms of the disease which, if left untreated, can affect the pancreas and kidneys with fatal results.
Causes of the outbreak are still being investigated and it is yet to be determined whether the disease is caused by environmental factors of whether contaminated food has played a part.
Symptoms of Alabama rot
Most dogs develop skin lesions, followed by tiredness, loss of appetite and vomiting. Typically with Alabama rot, lesions are below the knee or elbow, but can also be found on the face, bottom, chest or abdomen. Lesions can be presented as a swelling, patch of red skin or like something similar to an ulcer.
Although the above symptoms can be commonly caused by various other less-fatal illnesses, it’s always wise to contact your vet in the first instance.
