We’re well on our way into spring now, which means that (hopefully) the weather will start to pick up a bit and we can all start taking our pups out on long walks in the countryside, getting lots of fresh air and really blowing those cobwebs away… without the wind and rain blowing back in our faces.
It always pays to be vigilant on dog walks, however, especially when you’re out and about in woodland on a lovely splashy muddy stroll, as cases of Alabama rot have been on the rise over the last few years or so, a disease that can cause serious problems for your pooch.
Also known as cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy, Alabama rot damages blood vessels in the skin and kidneys, leading to visible sores. It can turn dangerous quite quickly, leading to severe organ dysfunction and kidney failure, so it’s wise to familiarise yourself with the signs and symptoms just in case.
The cause of the disease is currently unknown but most reports come from those who walk their dogs in the local countryside, with the majority of cases emerging during the spring and winter months… so now’s the time to be on your guard.
Symptoms include skin sores, red patches, visible swelling, changes in appetite, vomiting, lethargy and drinking more water.
Unfortunately, it’s quite tricky to do anything to avoid Alabama rot, so giving your dog a good wash after they’ve been on a muddy walk is an advisable course of action to take.
You can also check whether there are cases in your local area so you can avoid places where your dog may potentially pick up something nasty. It is worth remembering that cases of this disease are rare, so there’s really no need to panic… but it’s also worth staying clued up to help protect your pup.
Looking for a dog trainer in London right now? Get in touch with Sean Hyden today to see how he can help.
