Warning for Sheffield dog owners owners as more deadly Alabama Rot cases confirmed this month

The deadly disease has claimed the lives of three dogs in South Derbyshire, Chesire and Edgbaston last week after six more reported cases earlier this month.

The cases have been confirmed by veterinary specialist referral centre, Anderson Moores, in Frilsham (Berkshire), Little Lever, Bolton (Greater Manchester), Rugby (Warwickshire), Chorley (Lancashire), Torquay (Devon) and Cannock (Staffordshire).

Vets4Pets said that there have now been 112 confirmed cases of Alabama Rot across 31 counties since 2012, with 29 cases in 2017.

They have warned dog owners to 'remain calm but vigilant' and seek advice from their local vet if their dog develops unexplained skin lesions.

The mystery illness, which first appeared in the late 1980s affecting greyhounds in America, targets dog's blood vessels and kidneys.

It is notoriously difficult to identify and diagnose and can be even harder to treat.

Alabama Rot can affect all breeds and usually manifests itself in skin lesions, sore skin commonly below the elbow or knee, vomiting, reduced hunger and tiredness.

It is thought that the disease is picked up on the paws and legs on muddy walks so Vets4Pets warned dog owners to wash off woodland mud and check for signs of CRGV.

For more information visit - http://www.vets4pets.com/stop-alabama-rot/