Alabama Rot: The rare but lethal condition in dogs

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Alabama Rot is a condition affecting dogs which has been seen for many years in the USA, with a few reported cases in the UK since 2012. The condition causes skin lesions and, in some dogs, kidney failure. Currently the cause of the condition is unknown.

Alabama Rot, named after the location it was first seen, is correctly called cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy (CRGV). This means it is a disease of small blood vessels in the skin and kidneys. In CRGV, tiny blood clots form which block blood vessels causing damage to tissues.

The signs of Alabama Rot

The primary clinical sign is one or more skin lesions. Most commonly found on the lower limbs, lesions are occasionally seen on the body, face or mouth. Lesions may be swollen, red or ulcerated and can look like any other bite or cut. It can be very difficult to tell if a skin lesion is truly an early sign of CRGV as there is no test for it; however some dogs will only ever have skin lesions and will recover quickly.

A number of dogs affected by Alabama Rot will go on to experience damage to the kidneys (known as acute kidney injury). This typically occurs within a few days of the skin lesions developing. Dogs with kidney injury may show signs such as:

•  Lethargy
•  Weakness
•  Not eating
•  Sickness

Blood tests can confirm damage to the kidneys, which often leads to rapid kidney failure. Treatment can be attempted, such as intra-venous fluid therapy and supportive care, but severe kidney damage is often fatal as the damaged tissue can’t be repaired.

CRGV can affect dogs of any age, size or breed. Cases are still rare, though those reported seem to be mostly in the winter and spring months, with fewer confirmed or suspected cases through the summer. More cases have been reported in the south of England, especially around the New Forest.

What causes Alabama Rot?

Currently the cause is unknown, although research is being done. Alabama Rot in America is thought to be caused by a toxin produced by E. coli bacteria; however UK vets have been unable to prove this theory. There is a suggestion that the disease could be contracted from muddy woodland.  This hasn’t been proven, but it’s advisable to wash woodland mud off your dog’s legs and feet after each walk.

Alabama Rot remains a relatively rare disease, but it has been on the rise in recent years with 106 cases confirmed between 2016 and 2018 (between 2012 to 2015, fewer than 60 instances had been reported). If you have any concerns about your dog’s health, please consult your local vet immediately.

As with all unexpected illnesses and diseases, it’s always worthwhile having dog insurance in place to help with vet fees should something happen.