December 30: Purton Vets say that the dog – a Dobermann – suspected of having Alabama Rot is “doing quite well.” One of the vets told Marlborough News Online that she has skin lesions typical of the disease, but she shows no signs of kidney fauilure. He emphasised that the sooner treatment starts and suspected cases go on fluids, the better their chance of survival.
Vets in Purton – north west of Swindon – have reported that they have seen their first dog with suspected Alabama Rot: “The dog was walked in three different areas of Swindon and developed the typical skin lesions. She is doing well and is being closely monitored at the moment.”
Purton Vets said that the areas of concern arising from this case include the woods at the polo ground near Coate Water, Stratton Woods and Lydiard Park: “It’s impossible to say where she picked this up and there is no simple test to confirm this diagnosis.”
“Our advice to our clients in Purton and Swindon is to stop walking your dogs in all woodlands.”
“We don’t yet know how or where dogs contract this disease. Geographical location may not prove important, however there may be a link with muddy walks in wooded areas. It makes sense to avoid these areas if possible and wash mud off your dogs after walks.”
The first significant cases of this mystifying disease were in the New Forest – up to 20 dogs are believed to have died in the outbreak there in 2013. Purton Vets have pointed out that the New Forest Dog Owners Group are raising funds for research into the disease.
They are working closely with Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists near Winchester – who treated the recent cases of suspected cases in dogs walked in West Woods near Marlborough. David Walker a specialist at Anderson Moores has emphasised that the condition is not always fatal and does not want dog owners to panic.
Information on the fund – and how to contribute – can be found here.
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