Suspected case of deadly dog disease

Fears that Alabama Rot may have returned to the area have been sparked following the death of a dog at the weekend which had suffered symptoms similar to that of the mystery disease.

It comes two years after several cases were confirmed in the Leigh and Tyldesley areas of the borough.

Tyldesley Veterinary Centre has said they are waiting for test results to confirm the cause of death but have warned owners to be careful in the meantime.

In a statement, the centre said: “Some very sad news, our colleagues have informed us they have had a suspected case of Alabama Rot this weekend.

“The animal in question was walked along the old lines parallel to Squires Lane (Tyldesley). At this time it is only suspected, as our colleagues await the results.

“Alabama Rot (otherwise known as Cutaneous and Renal Glomerular Vasculopathy or CRGV ) is a serious disease which has only recently been recognized in dogs in the UK.”

The disease can cause lesions on the skin and occasionally in the mouth that may look like bites or sores. The disease can lead to dogs developing kidney failure.

“We recommend bathing any area of your dog which becomes wet or muddy on a walk, however at this stage we do not know if this is necessary or of any benefit,” the centre said.

“Unexplained redness, sores or swelling of the skin (particularly on the paws or legs but also the body, face, tongue or mouth) are often the first sign of this disease.

“It is important to remember that most of the time a skin problem will not be caused by CRGV however, the lesions in CRGV can be difficult to distinguish from cuts, wounds, stings or bites so if in doubt seek veterinary advice.

“Even if the skin changes are caused by CRGV, many dogs will not develop kidney problems and will recover fully.”

To find out more about Alabama Rot, visit andersonmoores.com.