Keeping your dog safe whilst on a walk in the countryside is obviously a key priority, particularly from certain plants they shouldn't be eating, but there's a particular disease owners should be wary of around spring and winter time.
According to vet specialist, Anderson Moores, CRGV (cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy), which is also known as 'Alabama Rot', is something that has popped up around the country around this time of year.
Cases have been spotted since 2012, including 17 across Dorset.
The last case the county saw was in Poole in February 2021, but there were no reports in 2022 and so far there have been none in 2023.
To see the full map of reported cases of Alabama Rot, visit the Anderson Moores website here.
What is Alabama Rot?
On the RSPCA website, it says: "Alabama rot, otherwise known as Cutaneous and Renal Glomerular Vasculopathy (CRGV), is a disease that affects dogs.
"It damages the blood vessels in the skin and kidneys, which causes visible sores on the skin and can lead to severe organ dysfunction and ultimately kidney failure."
The cause of the disease is currently unknown but most reports come from pet owners who walk their dogs in the countryside during the winter and spring.
What are the symptoms of Alabama Rot?
On the RSPCA website, it mentions things such as visible swelling, skin sores, red patches or skin defects that are not caused by known injuries to be a sign.
It adds: "These skin lesions typically appear below the knee or elbow, and occasionally on the face or at the bottom of the chest or abdomen."
Your dog having a reduced appetite, drinking more, vomiting and being lethargic are signs of acute kidney injury, which Alabama Rot is linked to.
It is important to contact your vet if you see such symptoms.
How to avoid Alabama Rot?
The RSPCA recommend washing off all mud following a wet and muddy walk, especially through woodland.
This comes with the caveat that it is difficult to give advice on how to avoid it considering the exact cause isn't known.
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