Three cases of Alabama rot were recorded in Herefordshire in 2024, in Kington, Stoke Lacy near Bromyard, and Carey, between Ross-on-Wye and Hereford.
Luckily, it was reported at the time, the Stoke Lacy dog beat the odds to recover from the disease, which has a 90 per cent fatality rate.
In 2023, no cases were recorded in Herefordshire, but one was reported nearby, in the Clee Hill area of Shropshire, while a case was reported in Ledbury in 2022.
The cases were recorded on AndersonMoores Veterinary Specialists live case map.
The company tracks every confirmed case in the country, with two cases already reported in the UK this year, both in West Sussex, with one in Alton and one in Brighton.
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Overall, 17 cases were recorded nationally in 2024, with the highest risk of the disease thought to be from November to May, when wet and muddy conditions prevail.
What is Alabama rot?
The disease, also known as CRGV, was first identified in the United States during the 1980s, mainly affecting greyhounds.
But now, it’s understood to be a threat to all dogs, no matter their breed, age, or size. Alabama rot damages blood vessels in the skin and kidneys. Dogs with the disease often have skin ulcers, usually on their legs or paws, says the Royal Veterinary College (RVC).
Unfortunately, if a dog contracts Alabama rot there is only a 10% chance it can be saved.
Alabama rot symptoms
Skin sores, visible swelling, red patches or skin defects not caused by a known injury. These skin lesions typically appear below the knee or elbow, and occasionally on the face or at the bottom of the chest or abdomen.
Changes in appetite – reduced appetite, drinking more, vomiting and lethargy are signs of acute kidney injury.
Remember, most visible skin lesions will not be caused by Alabama rot disease, and most kidney failure cases will result from another cause.
