Veterinarians have issued a warning to dog owners about the risks of Alabama rot, a rare but potentially fatal condition that can lead to kidney failure. The disease, formally known as cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy (CRGV), affects the blood vessels and kidneys of dogs.
Symptoms include skin lesions, often on the paws, lower limbs or abdomen, along with localised swelling, redness or crusting. More subtle signs may appear days later, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting and reduced urination, which can indicate kidney involvement. In severe cases, acute renal failure may be diagnosed.
The British Veterinary Association has noted that 90 per cent of cases occur between November and May. Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists reports 330 confirmed cases in the UK to date, including 19 in 2024 and two in 2025 before the peak winter period. The seasonal pattern is thought to be linked to cold, wet weather, which allows bacteria to thrive in muddy environments.
Veterinarian Iryna Smyrnova explained that toxins produced by E. coli bacteria are believed to play a key role. Dogs walking through infected ground may get minor cuts or scratches on their paws, providing an entry point for the toxins. She warned that the toxins can spread through the body, causing vasculitis that affects the kidneys and can lead to organ failure.
Experts recommend avoiding muddy woodland areas, fields and other wet, vegetated spots during the high-risk period. Owners should also clean and disinfect their dog's paws, legs and any skin abrasions immediately after walks to reduce the chance of infection. The exact cause remains unknown, but studies suggest an E. coli bacterial strain may be involved.
