Dog owners across the UK are being cautioned about a concerning rise in cases of Alabama rot, also known as CRGV (cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy), a potentially life-threatening disease affecting dogs. Kennel Store experts have shed light on the causes, symptoms, and risks associated with Alabama rot.
Alabama rot is a rare condition that hampers and harms the blood vessels in a dog’s skin and kidneys, often resulting in ulcers or sores, primarily on the legs, and eventually leading to kidney failure, which can be fatal. The precise cause of Alabama rot remains unknown, with research ongoing. Most cases are reported in dogs walked in rural areas, with occurrences more prevalent in winter and spring compared to summer.
Symptoms of Alabama rot include skin ulcers on the legs or paws, which may manifest as redness, bruises, stings, or open sores. Ulcers may also appear on the muzzle, tongue, head, flank, and belly. Changes in appetite, such as decreased food intake, increased drinking, vomiting, and lethargy, can indicate acute kidney injury.
To protect dogs from Alabama rot, it is advised to thoroughly wash off all mud after wet and muddy walks, particularly in woodland areas. As there is no known cure for Alabama rot due to its elusive cause, immediate veterinary attention is crucial if a dog displays symptoms, allowing for prompt diagnosis and treatment planning.
The first reported case of Alabama rot dates back to America in the 1980s, initially believed to affect only Greyhounds but now known to impact dogs of all breeds, ages, and sizes. Dog owners are urged to remain vigilant, monitor their pets closely for any concerning signs, and take proactive steps to safeguard their beloved companions from this dangerous disease.