Nearly two dozen cases of a rare but deadly dog disease have been confirmed in Wales in recent years — you can see outbreaks near you with our interactive map below. Alabama Rot is an incurable disease that causes painful sores on a dog’s paws and legs, and can often lead to kidney failure. Most cases are sadly fatal, so early detection and treatment is key.
There have been 21 confirmed cases of the disease in Wales since 2014, the most recent of which was officially recorded in Llanelli in Carmarthenshire in December 2021. However, the owner of a dog which died after a walk in Cardiff last month suspects his pet died after contracting Alabama rot. The dog, an 18-month-old XL Bully, became severely ill after a walk in a wooded area and is suspected to have caught Alabama rot. The dog, called Odin, developed symptoms which began with vomiting but he later died.
Dog owners have been warned to be on the alert following 10 confirmed cases across the UK that have been recorded so far this year. Across the UK, there have been 318 confirmed cases of Alabama rot since 2012, according to Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists. See where and when cases have been recorded in Wales by exploring our interactive map:
Alabama rot is also known as cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy (CRGV) and was first reported in America in the 1980s. It only affects dogs, not humans or other animals, but while it was thought to only affect greyhounds at first, any breed, age or size of dog can be susceptible. Fortunately, the disease is not contagious so dogs cannot pass it on to each other, but several dogs from the same household can contract the disease at the same time.
It is not known what causes Alabama rot, but it has been linked to wet and muddy conditions, with cases more common during winter and spring. The disease is rare, so don’t let the fear of it stop you from having fun outside with your dog, but the advice is to always clean and dry your dog after walks. Lots of dogs love rolling in mud and playing in water, where they might pick up harmful germs, so owners should clean their pet’s paws after every walk, especially if they’ve been near water or mud. It’s also a good idea to check your dog’s body every day for any ulcers or sores.
What are the symptoms of Alabama rot?
The RSPCA says if you see signs of Alabama rot in your dog, you should take them to the vet right away. Symptoms include skin sores, visible swelling, red patches or skin defects not caused by a known injury, and reduced appetite, drinking more, vomiting and lethargy.
Alabama rot can show up on a dog’s body between one and 10 days after they catch it. Kidney failure can happen straight after sores appear on a dog, so it’s really important to get treatment quickly. If your dog has skin ulcers or sores, the Kennel Club suggests using topical ointments. If Alabama rot is suspected, vets will usually give antibiotics and check the dog’s kidney function. If the dog’s kidneys are affected, the vet will need to keep an eye on the dog
Unfortunately, Alabama rot can only be confirmed after a dog has passed away through kidney samples, which means we don’t know the survival rates.
It’s important to have insurance to help with vet bills in case of accidents or illness, but whether your pet insurance covers Alabama rot will depend on your policy. Some policies only cover accidents, so you won’t be covered if your pet gets sick. But if your insurance covers illness, it should cover this disease. However, if there’s a limit on how much you can claim each year, you might not be fully covered for treatment. It’s best to check with your provider before taking out or changing your insurance.
All confirmed Alabama rot cases in Wales
- Llanelli, December 2021
- Porthcawl, August 2021
- Bridgend, February 2021
- Beddau, Rhondda Cynon Taf, January 2021
- Pontypridd, Rhondda Cynon Taf,
- Tonypandy, Rhondda Cynon Taf, November 2020
- Glasbury, Powys, March 2020
- Croespenmaen, Caerphilly, January 2020
- Chepstow, Monmouthshire, February 2018
- Newtown, Powys, February 2018
- Presteigne, Powys, February 2018
- Tonypandy, Rhondda Cynon Taf, January 2018
- Brecon, Powys, January 2018
- St Athan, Vale of Glamorgan, January 2018
- Presteigne, Powys, December 2017
- Magor, Monmouthshire, March 2017
- Caldicot, Monmouthshire, December 2016
- Undy, Monmouthshire, May 2016
- Coedpoeth, Wrexham, February 2016
- Portskewett, Monmouthshire, February 2016
- Bukholt Woods, Monmouthshire, January 2014
William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
