Alabama rot is a rare and mysterious disease affecting dogs, causing damage to the blood vessels in the skin and kidneys that can lead to kidney failure.
We don’t actually know. It appears to be seasonal, with most cases occurring between November and June, and there could be a link to muddy areas, although this is not proven.
Symptoms can include:
- Skin sores usually on paws and lower legs, but can be elsewhere - Lethargy - Loss of appetite - Vomiting - Increased thirst and urination
Currently, there is no definitive test for Alabama rot while a dog is still alive – it can only be diagnosed for certain by looking at post-mortem samples from the kidneys.
Unfortunately, no specific treatments are available at this time. Treatment is therefore usually supportive – managing the skin wounds and monitoring kidney function with blood and urine tests.
Unfortunately, if your dog goes on to develop kidney failure, the chances of it surviving are sadly very low.
Given that we do not yet know the cause, it is very difficult to advise on prevention. Since there appears to be an association with walking in muddy conditions it may be sensible to wash any areas of your dog that are muddy after a walk.