Alabama Rot or Cutaneous and Renal Glomerular Vasculopathy (CRGV) is a disease caused by tiny blood clots in the blood vessels to the skin and the kidneys leading to damage to these organs. Whilst this causes ulcers in the skin sadly in the kidneys it can lead to severe damage and kidney failure. As the cause is currently unknown, although suspected to be environmental, it is very hard to give advice on how to prevent this disease. Therefore, whilst no-one is sure if it is either necessary or even beneficial to do so, at present the experts suggest washing any areas of your dog which become wet or muddy on a walk.

Unfortunately there is no test for Alabama Rot and the disease can only be confirmed at post-mortem. Dogs may show a combination of the following signs:

• Ulcers or sores on the skin
• Loss of energy
• Poor appetite
• Jaundice, which may show as yellow discolouration of the eyes or gums
• In the later stages of the disease some dogs may vomit or retch
• In a small number of cases dogs can develop kidney failure, which sadly usually proves fatal

If you are concerned that your dog has developed any of these signs please contact the surgery on 01530 836654 for advice. One of our vets will be able to decide if your dog needs antibiotics, the area needs covering or in the case of dogs developing kidney failure whether more intensive management or referral to a specialist is necessary.

Further information can be found on the Stop Alabama Rot website at www.arrf.co.uk