Alabama Rot UK 2025: Updated Guide for Dog Owners

Alabama rot, scientifically known as Cutaneous and Renal Glomerular Vasculopathy (CRGV), remains a rare but serious health condition affecting dogs across the UK. Since its first confirmed cases in 2012, it has claimed many lives, making awareness and early action essential for dog owners.

What is Alabama Rot?

Alabama rot is a life-threatening disease that causes damage to blood vessels in the skin and kidneys. It typically starts with painful skin lesions and ulcers, especially on legs and paws, which can rapidly progress to kidney failure. Without prompt veterinary treatment, the disease is usually fatal.

Current Status and Cases in the UK

As of 2025, approximately 330 confirmed UK cases have been reported, with sporadic outbreaks across England and Wales, including Surrey, Staffordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Herefordshire, Dorset, Wiltshire, London, and further regions. The distribution shows no consistent yearly increase but highlights the persistent presence of the disease.

Cases commonly occur during the wetter months, predominantly between November and May/June, when muddy walking environments prevail – a suspected risk factor.

Recognising Symptoms Early

• Skin lesions: Painful sores, ulcers, redness or swelling on paws, legs, belly, face, or tongue
• Excessive licking: Dogs may frequently lick affected areas
• General symptoms: Loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting, increased thirst, suggesting kidney involvement

Early detection by vigilant owners combined with immediate veterinary care greatly improves the chances of survival.

Why Has Alabama Rot Appeared in the UK?

The exact cause remains unknown. Initially found in greyhounds in the United States during the 1980s, the condition later disappeared from there. In the UK, the first case was in 2012, and it is unclear whether it was introduced or developed naturally. Current research suggests environmental exposure to muddy woodland and similar habitats may trigger the disease, although no definite pathogen has yet been identified.

Preventative Measures for Dog Owners

While no vaccine or specific treatment exists for prevention, owners can take important steps to reduce risk:

1. Thoroughly wash and dry your dog after walks in muddy or woodland areas, especially during high-risk months
2. Regularly check your dog’s skin for unexplained sores, redness or ulcers
3. Avoid walking your dog in known affected areas during peak seasons if possible
4. Promptly seek veterinary advice if you spot suspicious skin wounds or notice your dog showing signs of illness

Treatment and Veterinary Care in 2025

Treatment is supportive and symptom-focused. It involves pain relief and preventing secondary infections in skin lesions, alongside intensive care if kidney failure develops. Fluid therapy, hospitalisation, and monitoring are critical.

Recent advances include therapeutic plasma exchange (plasmapheresis), an innovative procedure filtering toxins from the blood. This offers new hope for recovery in some cases.

Ongoing research in the UK, including studies at the University of Bristol, continues to explore causes and improve diagnostic and treatment options.

Areas Affected in 2025

Cases have been reported throughout much of England and Wales, with many linked to muddy woodland environments. Dog owners should be particularly vigilant in these locations during the wetter months.

Summary Table

Final Advice for Dog Owners

Alabama rot is serious but remains rare relative to the UK dog population. Continue enjoying outdoor activities, but exercise caution during muddy seasons. Vigilantly monitor your dog's skin and behaviour, and seek early veterinary advice if you notice any concerning signs. Responsible ownership and awareness are the best defences against this disease.

For more information and latest updates, consult your vet or trusted UK veterinary resources.