Alabama Rot in Devon
By the end of 2022, the UK has had 290 confirmed cases, with 11 specific cases this year alone. There has been one confirmed case of Alabama Rot in Devon, discovered in Kingsbridge. Whilst cases remain low, there is no immediate cause for concern. We do, however, recommend that dog owners and walkers remain vigilant.
What is Alabama Rot (CRGV) in Dogs?
CRGV stands for Cutaneous and Renal Glomerular Vasculopathy and is often known as Alabama Rot. This disease is extremely rare, but unfortunately, is a potentially fatal condition. CRGV damages the blood vessels in the dog’s skin and organs, specifically within their kidneys. Multiple tiny blood clots then begin to form that obstruct the blood flow in the arteries. This can ultimately lead to skin lesions, swollen skin, and in some cases kidney failure.
Very little is known about Alabama Rot due to the rarity of the disease. Some dogs are known to only develop skin sores and have been known to make a full recovery, but this cannot be confirmed as a case of CRGV as current tests can only be performed post-mortem. Unfortunately, when kidney failure occurs it is often fatal, and recovery is not expected.
How to Prevent your Dog from Getting Alabama Rot?
Sadly, there is no known cure for Alabama Rot or any active methods to prevent it. CRGV is a seasonal disease that is known to be contracted in the months between November and May. It has been most commonly discovered in dogs that have recently been in the countryside or wooded areas, especially after heavy rainfall.
If you walk your dog through rural and muddy areas, we recommend that you wash or rinse your dog after every walk. Especially within the months of November to May. You should also regularly examine your dog for sores, or unexplainable wounds. This should be done between once a week to once a month. The main areas for concern are their legs, lower body, and face, where the sores are most likely to develop. Some dogs will also experience changes in behaviour, such as refusing food, vomiting, becoming excessively tired, or licking their paws more commonly. These can all be indicators alongside skin lesions that can indicate Alabama Rot.
We do recommend that you bear in mind that the presence of skin sores does not guarantee that your dog has this disease. It is important to get any unexplained sores checked by your vet. Alabama Rot in Devon is still extremely rare but the early identification of CRGV may increase your chances of successful treatment.
Reported Cases of Alabama Rot in Devon
If you suspect your dog may have CRGV in Devon, even if you are uncertain, please contact your local veterinary practice today. As a dog owner vigilance is key for the upkeep of your dog’s health.
For more information about the confirmed case of Alabama Rot in Devon, speak to your local vets for advice and support.