A SECOND dog from Monmouthshire is being treated after showing symptoms of suspected Alabama Rot, or Cutaneous and Renal Glomerular Vasculopathy (CRGV).

The dog fell ill over the weekend (23th to 24th January) after being walked in the Chepstow area, and had symptoms that could be consistent with CRGV.

The cause of CRGV is unknown, but damages the blood vessels of the skin and kidney, causing tiny blood clots to form.

These clots can cause ulceration of the skin, but in the blood vessels of the kidneys can lead to total kidney failure.

Although the dog is not confirmed to have the disease, because of his symptoms he is being treated intensively. Antibiotics and an intravenous drip are being administered to counter secondary infection from skin ulceration, and kidney failure. The case of CRGV has not been fully confirmed because it is not possible to test for the disease whilst the dog is alive.

Early symptoms include unexplained redness, sores or ulceration of the skin, particularly on the paws or legs. Signs of kidney failure come one to nine days after the skin lesions and can include vomiting and lethargy. However, it is worth noting that most of the time skin problems are not caused by CRGV, and there are less severe causes of kidney injury. But when in doubt it is best to seek veterinary advice, as early and aggressive management gives the best chance of surviving the illness.

Although an environmental cause for this disease has not been proven, it has been suggested that owners should take care to wash their dog’s paws after particularly muddy walks. No specific location has been highlighted as a risk in the Monmouthshire area.

For more information on CRGV, visit veterinary specialists’ advice page at www.andersonmoores.com/owner/CRGV.php