Dog owners warned as deadly Alabama Rot spreads to Warwickshire

[dutchman]

It is understood the case was reported in Claverdon, near Warwick, on Wednesday



A case of the Alabama Rot disease was confirmed near Warwick.

Local veterinary group Avonvale Veterinary Centres, has issued a warning to dog owners after Warwickshire became the latest area in the country to be affected by the potentially deadly disease.

Avonvale operates surgeries in Leamington, Warwick, Kenilworth, Stratford, Southam and Wellesbourne.

It is understood the case was reported in Claverdon, near Warwick, on Wednesday.

This is the latest in a long line of confirmed cases across the country.

Mark Taylor, clinical director at Avonvale, said: “The case of Alabama Rot reported in Warwickshire is concerning and I would advise owners to be on their guard.

"Early symptoms include sores and skin lesions, typically below the knee or elbow, which are not wounds from an injury.

“The sores show as a swelling, a patch of red skin or a defect such as an ulcer.

“From then, affected dogs can develop signs of kidney failure which can include vomiting, reduced appetite and tiredness.

“Early recognition of the disease is key.

"Without knowing the trigger for the disease it’s impossible to give specific advice but I would urge dog owners to bring take their pets to be checked after any sudden onset of skin lesions, especially if the dog is also unwell.”