A live map which tracks Alabama rot has shown the locations of the potentially lethal dog disease across Nottinghamshire since 2015. As defined by the RSPCA, Alabama rot, otherwise known as Cutaneous and Renal Glomerular Vasculopathy (CRGV), damages the blood vessels in the skin and kidneys of dogs, which causes visible sores on the skin and can lead to severe organ dysfunction and ultimately kidney failure.
According to vet specialist, Anderson Moores, some dogs develop skin sores only, while others develop skin sores and kidney failure. Recovery is expected in the former group; however, many dogs that develop kidney failure do not survive because of this disease.
Unfortunately, it is not known exactly what causes Alabama Rot, but the disease is known to be more prevalent in spring and winter. Dogs who are walked in muddy or woodland areas also tend to be more affected.
