Dog owners warned as number of Alabama Rot cases soars in the United Kingdom
Cases of a deadly canine disease, known as Alabama Rot, are on the rise in the United Kingdom, prompting fresh warnings for dog owners.
Nine recent cases of the disease, also known as CRGV, were confirmed on March 20 across Lincolnshire, Devon, West Sussex, London, Greater Manchester and Cornwall.
This brings the total number of confirmed cases to 152 since 2012, with 29 of those occurring in 2018, according to veterinary specialists Anderson Moores.
There have been cases of the disease up and down the United Kingdom. (Photo/Jillian MacMath)
In the whole of 2017, there were just 27 confirmed cases.
With numbers steadily rising, vets fear this year could mark the worst one yet.
While the cause of the disease is not yet known, experts believe there may be an environmental trigger for it.
Dog owners are advised to avoid going on walks in muddy, wooded areas, particularly after heavy rainfall.
Dogs which get muddy on a walk should have their paws and legs washed thoroughly afterward.
Experts say knowing the early signs of the condition is critical, as early detection is more likely to lead to a successful recovery.
According to Anderson Moores, signs of the disease include loss of energy, loss of appetite, vomiting and skin lesions, ulcers and sores.
They said: “We continue to advise owners to be vigilant and to seek advice from their local vet if their dog develops unexplained skin lesions/sores.”
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