Shropshire dog owners warned over deadly disease
Dog owners are being warned after a serious disease is believed to have been found in Shropshire.
The cause of Alabama Rot is unknown and, as such, there is no known way to prevent dogs from contracting the disease.
As such, walkers are advised to be aware of areas where confirmed cases of the illness have been seen.
So far, the case in Telford is unconfirmed, but is suspected to be Alabama Rot. The illness can lead to kidney failure.
Other outbreaks have previously been seen in Whitchurch in 2014 and Coedpoeth near Wrexham in February 2016.
Shropshire Wildlife Trust said: "We have been contacted by a regular walker to say their dog has contracted Alabama Rot, a serious dog disease that is spreading in the UK. They have said they only walk their dogs at Granville, so wanted to warn other owners."
Haygate Veterinary Centre, which has sites across Telford has also put out a warning, giving owners tips on what to look out for
In a post on social media, it said: "It is important to note that although this disease can be very serious, the number of dogs affected remains low with only 94 confirmed cases across the whole of the UK between 2012 and 2017.
"Many of these dogs only develop skin ulcers and do not progress to kidney failure so recover fully.
Symptoms include skin ulcers or red patches typically on the lower legs, belly or mouth/muzzle. This can develop into kidney failure with signs of vomiting, inappetance, lethargy and increased thirst.
"Cases of Alabama Rot have been reported from across many different counties in the UK and vets are not currently advising dog owners to avoid any particular locations.
"Although an environmental cause for this disease is considered possible it has not been proven with testing to date.
"It may help to make sure that your dogs feet and legs are washed after muddy woodland walks. Certainly owners should be aware of the signs and symptoms and contact us if you have any concerns - early recognition and treatment is key in this potentially fatal disease."
It is thought that the disease is picked up on the paws and legs on muddy walks, so owners should always wash off legs, check for signs and if they have any concerns, call their vet.
For more information, visit http://www.vets4pets.com/stop-alabama-rot/
