Deadly Dog Disease Deaths.

Alabama rot may have caused over 30 deaths in dogs within two years.

12:37 24 March 2015

30 dogs died in 18 months and it is believed that the cause was Alabama rot - a deadly disease for dogs, which causes skin lesions and kidney failure. 

 

Vets argue that this disease needs more researching to prevent its recurrence  in the future.

 

Symptoms can include, vomiting, loss of appetite and tiredness.

 

The origin and cause of Alabama rot is unknown, though there were 71 possible cases in England in 16 months, in Worcestershire, County Durham and more. 

 

A decision has not yet been reached as to whether this is a disease which has always been present but until now remained undiagnosed, or if this is a newly emerging problem.

 

Prior to this, the disease was known in America, with few cases elsewhere.

 

Although the 30 possible cases in England come from over the country, 1/3 of these dogs had spent time in Hampshire's New Forest, before becoming ill.

 

The small blood vessels in the dogs' organs became damaged as a result of the illness and this contributed to the kidney injury.

 

The report on the case states:

 

"Continued detailed evaluation will enhance the understanding of the disease and will hopefully help to identify possible triggers."