Alabama Rot in Dogs - What is it and how can you prevent it
Delving into the world of doggy illnesses can be scary for any pet parent. But being informed is the best way to keep your Dog healthy and happy. Today, we're talking about Alabama Rot in dogs. This disease is relatively rare, but as its potentially life threatening - it's important to know the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of Alabama rot if you own a dog. Keep reading to learn more!
What is Alabama Rot?
Alabama Rot is a serious skin disorder in dogs that can be life-threatening. It is also known as CRGV (Cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy), and it is caused by unidentified damage to blood vessels of the skin and kidneys.
It isn’t clear what causes Alabama Rot but it is more prevalent in Spring and Winter, with Dogs walked in muddy or woodland areas being the most frequently affect – it is therefore thought to be linked to a bacteria within the ground and soil.
Alabama Rot can affects dogs of any breed, size or age but the effects will impact most on older or dogs with underlying health issues. It starts with causing tiny blood clots , which block the blood vessels resulting in skin ulcers. These can occur on any part of the dog’s body, such as limbs or face and can be easily misdiagnosed due to its similarity to other wounds or lesions. If left untreated, Alabama Rot can cause kidney failure and lead to fatal consequences. since There are no specific treatments for Alabama Rot yet, but diagnosis can be narrowed down using sample tests. Early detection increases the chances of recovery for your pet before any damage is caused to the Kidneys.
What are the symptoms of Alabama Rot?
Symptoms of Alabama Rot vary, but the most common signs of infection are sores found on a dog's skin or legs - usually below the knee or elbow and can be easily missed. Symptoms such as reddish/black patches, skin lesions, and open wounds likely to occur together with swollen limbs can also suggest the presence of this condition. Symptoms occurring within two to seven days might include fever, tiredness, depression, anorexia, vomiting and diarrhoea. As soon as any suspicious symptoms appear, it is recommended that a veterinarian is contacted for prompt diagnosis and treatment to reduce the risks of a fatal outcome.
How is Alabama Rot diagnosed?
Alabama Rot can be difficult to identify but early diagnosis is crucial in treating Alabama Rot, as a rapid response helps increase the likelihood of your dog making a full recovery. First, your veterinarian will take a detailed history, including where your dog may have been and what activities they have undertaken recently. Then they will perform a physical exam, taking into account any abnormalities such as swollen lymph nodes, development of skin lesions or ulcers on the leg or chest. In addition to physical tests and exams, vets may also recommend blood and urine tests to check for inflammation markers and organ functions. Imaging techniques like X-rays which can detect changes in the bone sometimes caused by Alabama Rot can also be helpful in diagnosing the condition. As an essential part of Alabama rot care, it is beneficial for pet owners to stay informed about this potentially devastating condition and talk to their vet about Alabama Rot diagnosis if there is any suspicion at all.
What is the treatment for Alabama Rot?
Treatment for Alabama rot typically involves the administration of antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and oftentimes intravenous fluids to help manage electrolyte imbalances resulting from the infection. Depending on how far along Alabama rot has progressed, surgical removal of affected areas of tissue may be necessary. To maintain mobility and reduce pain associated with lesions or wounds, physical therapy may also be recommended. With early diagnosis and aggressive treatment from a veterinarian, Alabama rot is entirely manageable and even curable in some cases.
How can you prevent Alabama Rot from occurring?
It is important to be aware of possible causes of this condition and be proactive in caring for your pet. Taking preventative measures such as avoiding muddy areas when walking your dog isn’t always possible so ensure you always rinse off the paws or bathing them after walks. Regular checks of your dogs skin for cuts and sores and being aware of what is normal for your dog can all help early identification and reduce the risk of contracting the disease. Additionally, being aware of the symptoms associated with Alabama Rot and seeking urgent treatment immediately if they arise will further prevent further complications.
Alabama Rot is still relatively rare with 290 confirmed cases in the UK with 11 confirmed in 2022.
If you have any concerns that your dog may be displaying symptoms of Alabama Rot, it is important to contact your local vet as soon as possible. Prevention by regular inspection and washing after muddy walk alongside early diagnosis and treatment are vital for the best chance of recovery from this disease. For more information on reported cases of Alabama Rot and to view a live tracking map which shows areas that have been affect visit https://www.alabama-rot.co.uk/.
