A dog in the Westcountry has been struck down by this flesh-eating dog disease, Alabama Rot (CRGV). This is a disease caused by damage to blood vessels which blocks them and can ultimately lead to damage of the affected tissue. In the skin, this causes ulceration, however, in the kidneys it can lead to severe organ failure.
If you suspect your dog may have it, depending on the severity, it can be treated and your Vet can advise you on the most appropriate management. This could include antibiotics, but if the dog is developing kidney failure, will need intensive management, which your Vet will discuss with you.
CRGV has not been seen in animals other than dogs. Owners of dogs affected by CRGV have not been affected by this illness
To protect your dog as best you can, please take all the precautions listed below:
- Avoid taking your dogs for walks in muddy wooded areas, particularly after a period of heavy rainfall
- Wash your dog’s paws and legs thoroughly when you get back from walks
- If you notice unexplained redness, sores or swelling of the skin (particularly on the paws or legs, but also the body, face, tongue or mouth), these are often the first sign of this disease. It is important to remember that most of the time a skin problem will NOT be caused by CRGV; however, the lesions in CRGV can be difficult to distinguish from cuts, wounds, stings or bites, so if in doubt it is better to check with your Vet. Even if the skin changes are caused by CRGV, many dogs will not develop kidney problems and will recover fully. In this instance make an appointment to see the vet who may well recommend a blood test to see if it is possible to rule CRGV out.
- Anderson Moores are offering a glomerular filtration rate measurement and free test. They are inviting vets presented with dogs with skin lesions of unknown cause to call/email and they will give details to your vet on measuring. This needs to be done one day and then again two weeks later as a compulsory inclusion criteria, otherwise there will be a charge. This can only be done Mon-Thurs and all costs other than consumables are covered by Andreson Moores as long as the owners come back for the second measurement.