With the weather turning wetter we are likely to see an increase in the deadly dog disease Alabama rot.
Dog owners are being told to prepare for the return of the condition which is also called "dog's black death".
There have already been 44 cases of the disease in the UK this year. It can kill dogs in just one week.
It tends to occur more in the wetter months of the year so we have put together a guide of everything you need to know to keep your best friend safe.
Earlier in the year there were several cases of the disease reported by dog walkers using Llantrisant Common.
What are the symptoms?
According to the Forestry Commission skin lesions appear where there is no obvious traumatic wound from an injury.
Typically the skin lesions have been below the knee and can appear as a focal swelling, a patch of red skin, or a defect in the skin like an ulcer.
Over the next two days to a week, the dog can develop clinical signs of kidney failure which can include vomiting, reduced appetite, and tiredness.
Not every dog will suffer kidney failure but in those that do it on average happens three days after the skin lesions appear, though it has been known to happen up to 10 days later.
It is important to remember that kidney issues do not necessary mean your dog has Alabama rot.
How many cases of Alabama rot have their been in the UK?
The amount of cases has been increasing, with only eight more needed in 2020 to break a record.
- Six in 2012
- Five in 2013
- 32 in 2014
- 21 in 2015
- 19 in 2016
- 40 in 2017
- 52 in 2018
- 29 in 2019
- 44 so far in 2020
Find the latest news for your area:
This interactive map from Vets4Pets shows all the cases of the disease in Wales and where the affected dogs had walked:
What do the experts say?
First and foremost, the disease remains extremely rare.
David Walker, a leading expert on the condition from Anderson Moores, said: “We are sad to announce more cases from this year, as we are now back at the time of year when cases are most common.
“Further confirmed cases mean it is understandably very worrying for dog owners; however, this disease is still very rare, so we’re advising dog owners to remain calm but vigilant, and seek advice from their local vet if their dog develops unexplained skin lesions.
“While there is currently no known way to prevent a dog from contracting the disease."
Speaking to WalesOnline previously he said: "A distinct seasonal pattern is suggested, with the vast majority of cases occurring between November and March, and limited cases over the summer months – just 6.5% of cases have been confirmed from June to October."
According to Dr Huw Stacey, vet and director of clinical services at Vets4Pets, who has been supporting research on the condition for a number of years, the survial rate is very low.
He said: “While it is understandable that dog owners will be worried by Alabama rot, it is still a very rare disease and we’d encourage owners to continue exercising their pet.
“If a dog becomes affected, the best chance of recovery lies with early and intensive veterinary care at a specialist facility such as Anderson Moores.
“Treatment is supportive, but is only successful in around 20%, which is why we’re encouraging all dog owners to use the online interactive guide to help them understand the clinical signs and confirmed locations of the condition, and visit a vet if they have any concerns.”
