Dog owners are being warned about an increased seasonal risk of a disease that can prove fatal to their beloved animals. Animal Friends Pet Insurance has urged them to take extra precautions when on muddy walks with dogs due to an increased risk of the potentially fatal Alabama rot disease.
Catrin George, animal wellbeing specialist at Animal Friends Pet Insurance said: “Alabama rot is a disease that causes blood to clot in the blood vessels, which leads to kidney damage and can sadly result in kidney failure. While the exact cause of Alabama rot is not yet known, dogs may be at risk on autumn walks as it’s suspected that the disease spreads from wet, muddy and wooded areas. Unfortunately, the only prevention advice from vets is to make sure to wash your dog following any wet and muddy walks.”
Symptoms of Alabama rot
The first symptoms of Alabama rot are usually lesions, ulcers, or sores that typically appear on the lower leg, stomach and face. Your dog will lick at the wound, which might cause baldness. Within a couple of days, your dog could show signs of kidney failure which include a lack of appetite, being sick, and unusual tiredness.
Catrin said: “If your dog is showing any of these symptoms without an obvious injury, it’s time to visit the vet.”
While Alabama rot is one of the most serious risks to be aware of, Catrin has also shared five other autumnal hazards dog owners might come across on their daily walks. According to Animal Friends’ claims data, the average cost of vet fees related to treating toxic and foreign body ingestion in 2023 totalled £766, making it important for pet owners to be aware of the potential dangers that come with the new season.
What to watch for on walks
Fallen leaves
Catrin said: “As leaves rot, they turn into a mouldy compost-like substance which contains bacteria and fungus, which can lead to stomach upset if your dog ingests the leaf mould. Piles of leaves can also hide sticks and branches which could cut or wound dogs.”
Conkers
Catrin said: “While they might seem harmless once out of their spiky shells, conkers can block airways and contain a chemical that’s toxic to dogs so it’s best to steer clear of any conker trees on your walks.”
Mushrooms
Catrin said: “Most wild-growing mushrooms are harmless, however, there are a number of mushrooms that are toxic to dogs and humans so it’s best to avoid them altogether if possible.”
Yew
Catrin said: “The yew tree is a large, evergreen tree that can prove fatal for dogs and humans. These trees produce berries from September-October which might attract some curious sniffers but are highly toxic.”
Ivy
Catrin said: “Ivy berries, which appear from November to January, are an important plant for wildlife, but they’re poisonous for dogs and people. The berries are bitter and black when ripened. Make sure your dog doesn’t go foraging for ivy berries while out and about on your walks.”
If you suspect your dog might have come into contact with a toxin, or eaten something poisonous, do not hesitate to contact your vet right away.
This post was originally published on this site be sure to check out more of their content.
