Most of us dog-owners will have read the recent reports concerning Alabama Rot, and it’s no surprise that there is some real concern and fear among us. This serious condition, first identified in the 1980s among greyhounds in the U.S., was – until recently – thought to be mainly confined to the swampy, humid southern American state. But whether due to evolution, global warming, or any other physiological or microbiological phenomena, it is now a consideration for anyone who walks their pup in the British countryside. If the mainstream media reports are to be believed, it is a real threat to our much-treasured daily walking time. And that is exactly why I have written this piece: it’s there; it’s a ‘thing’, but let’s keep ‘things’ in perspective.
In this blog, I’m examining the facts and figures – not the “who-what-where” scare-stories. I’m referencing forensically detailed research such as that compiled and shared publicly by the excellent Anderson Moores veterinary clinic, in Winchester. I’m looking at evidence compiled by the Royal Veterinary Clinic (RVC), Kennel Club, RSPCA, Gov.uk, and more. I’m listening to podcasts by David Walker, the UK's foremost authority on Alabama Rot (or CRGV, Cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy, to give it its scientific name). And I’m talking to experienced dog-walkers and qualified vets, who have experience of a huge range of serious doggie-centric conditions.
Essentially, via this blog, I’m aiming to provide my own perspective, and offer what I personally believe is a balanced approach to taking precautions. Let me be clear: I am not a vet; nor am I a scientist. But I am a responsible dog-owner, spaniel-trainer, and a degree-owning human who can interpret stats and science in a relevant, resonant way. I really hope this helps to highlight the things that are within our control, which we might find useful or sensible - and those which are not.
Understanding the statistics:
As of February 2024, there have been 318 confirmed cases of Alabama Rot in England and Wales; most during the colder, wetter months of late-autumn through to mid-spring. The first identified case on our shores was in 2012, so that does indeed appear to be quite a rise in just 12 years. But – and it’s a BIG but – there are an approximate 12 million domestic dogs owned in our country. And that’s just the microchipped ones: realistically, the figure is going to be something like 15 million. But let’s be conservative and work with that 12 million figure: if we calculate the percentage of cases versus the number of known domestic dogs, we get 0.00265%.
Let me repeat that: 0.00265% of our known domestic dog population has been diagnosed with Alabama Rot, over the last 12 years.
That is an extraordinarily low number. Statistically (and I have indeed done the maths), we are at least ten times more likely to:
o Be struck by lightning
o Be involved in a motoring accident
o Choke on a strand of spaghetti
o Get food-poisoning from bacteria existing in your own fridge
o Suffer a life-changing injury as a result of a minor DIY project.
We do most of these things regularly; often in combination. My own fridge, my worrisome habit of inhaling food far too quickly, not to mention my track-record with a mouse-sander, is all testament to this. I’m sure I’m not the only one – and, bar the odd scrape, we remain pretty OK.
So now we know that the potential for our dog contracting this condition is pretty low; all things considered. But I am never blasé, and I personally think it’s sensible to take precautions and maintain good levels of hygiene and cleanliness in our dogs. Many (if not most) of us will already be doing this - but perhaps now is as good a time as any for us to review our hygiene routines with our pups.
What can we do?
The practical precautions we can take are so easy, and naturally will have other benefits as well as potentially safeguarding your dog against contracting an unwanted health condition.
Stay informed: I'd suggest we all keep abreast of updates and news regarding Alabama Rot outbreaks in the area where we live – but let's not succumb to social media scare-stories. For example, if we read about new cases, it's worth checking our sources. And let' try not to worry or over-react – just follow sensible advice, and keep an eye out for any information coming from your vet, or from your local council.
Maintain good hygiene: Washing your dog's paws, legs, undercarriage and possibly even face (including muzzle and ears) thoroughly after walks is pretty sensible at all times; particularly after walking in muddy or wooded areas (especially is it thought that the causes of the condition may be more prevalent here). If you drive to your favourite walking-spots, you could consider getting a portable dog-washer. We did our research and ultimately bought the Petcarium insulated portable shower. We fill it with lovely warm water from our bath-tap, and the water remains at a shower-perfect temperature for over 3 hours. I'd always suggest drying your dog off thoroughly after a good wash – microfibre towels, which you can get anywhere (we bought ours from the selection at PetsAtHome) are a great, quick-dry-off solution, and they’re so easy to fold into your car, your rucksack, or anywhere. If you walk from your home to your walking spot, why not get a bowl of warm water ready to give your dog a wash when you get back? You don’t need to add shampoo (unless he/she has rolled in fox poo!!) – and definitely don’t add any other detergents, such as soap, as these are completely unsuitable for dogs’ skin.
Monitor for symptoms: I do believe we should all remain vigilant for any potential signs of Alabama Rot, including skin lesions, swelling, lethargy, and changes in appetite. Prompt veterinary attention is crucial if you spot any symptoms arise. The RSPCA website provides a good overview of the symptoms (essentially it’s what I’ve just outlined here).
Choose walking locations sensibly: We all know how important it is to exercise our dogs, so I would never suggest compromising on that – but it may be worth keeping an eagle-eye on your local walking spots for any confirmed cases. As we’ve just discussed, Alabama Rot remains very low-risk, but if you’re at all worried, why not try to keep your pup out of super-muddy conditions, and/or wash and dry them thoroughly as quickly as you can once your walk is over? Dogs will be dogs, and we owe them the fun and exercise they deserve. Yes, be watchful, but I'd hate to think anyone allows their concerns to spoil their outdoor adventures.
Check with your vet: If you have concerns about Alabama Rot or any other health issues affecting your dog, I would definitely recommend seeking advice from your vet. They will be in a good position to provide advice, reassurance, and any additional guidance that may be appropriate in your particular area.
Alabama Rot is undoubtedly a concerning condition for dog owners, but maintaining perspective is key. By understanding the statistics, practicing sensible precautions, and continuing to enjoy outdoor activities with our furry companions, we can strike a balance between responsible pet ownership and living life to the fullest. Let's stay informed, stay cautious, and continue providing our dogs with the love, care, and exercise they need to thrive.
Want to know more? We will shortly be publishing our FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) on Alabama Rot, which we’ll update regularly with the newest publicly-available information from scientists, vets and other qualified researchers. Get in touch, or if you are in any doubt at all, please contact your local qualified vet – they really are the best source of info and advice in your locality.
Happy walking
Happy hunting
Hail Be Thou x
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