Milton Keynes pet owners warned to be vigilant after dog dies of Alabama rot in neighbouring Northamptonshire

Milton Keynes dog owners are being warned to be 'calm but vigilant' after a dog in neighbouring Northamptonshire died of Alabama rot.

The dog from Towcester is among 13 new cases of cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy (CRGV) confirmed today (Tuesday, March 17).

David Walker, the UK’s leading expert on the condition, from veterinary specialist referral centre Anderson Moores, said now is the time of year when cases are most common.

“Further confirmed cases mean it is understandably very worrying for dog owners," he said.

"However, this disease is still very rare, so we’re advising dog owners to remain calm but vigilant, and seek advice from their local vet if their dog develops unexplained skin lesions.

“While there is currently no known way to prevent a dog from contracting the disease, any concerned dog owners should visit www.vets4pets.com/stop-alabama-rot for advice and a map of confirmed cases.”

The other new cases are from across the country, including Nuthall and two in Kirkby in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, Carterton in Oxfordshire, and as far as Somerset, taking the total this year to 28.

Dr Huw Stacey, vet and director of clinical services at Vets4Pets, advises dog owners to contact their vet if they have any concerns.

“While it is understandable that dog owners will be worried by Alabama rot, it is still a very rare disease and we’d encourage owners to continue exercising their pet," he said.

“If a dog becomes affected, the best chance of recovery lies with early and intensive veterinary care at a specialist facility such as Anderson Moores.

“Treatment is supportive, but is only successful in around 20 per cent of cases, which is why we’re encouraging all dog owners to use the online interactive guide to help them understand the clinical signs and confirmed locations of the condition, and visit a vet if they have any concerns.”

What is Alabama rot?

Alabama rot or cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy (CRGV) is a serious disease that has only recently been recognised in dogs in the UK.

It causes lesions on the skin and occasionally in the mouth, which can look like bites, sores, wounds or stings.

Some dogs go on to develop life-threatening kidney failure. Any age, sex, or breed of dog can be affected and it is fatal in nine out of 10 dogs.