Vets issue warning to all dog owners as 'flesh-eating' disease on the rise

Dog walkers are being warned as the 'flesh-eating' disease, Alabama rot, is reportedly on the rise with vets stressing awareness. The grave threat of Alabama rot, a lethal "flesh-eating" disease that may result in kidney failure in pets, is escalating.

Dr Corinne Wigfall, from Petsure, is pressing the need for early detection and prevention of this core.

Dr Wigfall disclosed: "Alabama rot causes clots to form in small blood vessels. It starts as skin lesions and can tragically lead to kidney failure for some dogs. With cases of Alabama rot increasing in the UK, it's crucial to be aware of the tell-tale signs. The disease can affect any dog, regardless of age or breed."

Cautious measures are urged towards pet walking areas, as the primary source of Alabama rot remains unidentified. Some theories interpret a bacterial origin, akin to E.coli, while others trace the connections to dogs previously exposed to muddy woodland surroundings. To decrease potential risk, avoiding humid, wet, and muddy terrain is suggested during walks, reports Birmingham Live.

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If your dog has been for a stroll in wooded areas, ensure their coat is clean and completely dry, advises the Mirror.

Regular health check-ups for your dog are fundamental. Due to the uncertainty related to the mode of transmission of the disease and, unfortunately, the absence of a vaccine, keeping a close eye on your dog's health is highly recommended.

Ensure to check your dog daily for any unusual lumps or sores. The main symptoms to look out for are raised, circular wounds and skin ulcers.

The face, legs, and paws of your dog are the most commonly affected areas, so give these a thorough check. These sores might have a dark centre and bruises, so keep an eye out for these signs. Monitor your dog's behaviour.

The sooner you spot symptoms, the better. Other signs to watch out for include lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, increased urination, and in rare cases, stiffness in the body.

If your dog is acting differently or you notice something strange, get them seen by your vet straight away. Seek treatment.

If you think your dog may have Alabama rot, or if you've noticed any of the above symptoms, take your dog to the vet immediately. If Alabama rot isn't treated quickly, it could affect the kidneys within days of the appearance of skin lesions.

The vet will ask about the symptoms you've noticed, examine the wounds, and take blood or urine samples. They may give your dog antibiotics to prevent or treat an infection in the wounds.

If there are concerns about potential kidney damage, intravenous fluids will be initiated immediately to safeguard the kidneys. This means your furry friend will need to stay at the veterinary clinic for treatment.

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