We are all concerned by the continuing threat of Alabama Rot, the cause of which remains unknown. This tool popped up on my FB feed via a training organisation which provides useful information together with a Postcode checker for confirmed cases which may help those of us planning holidays to new areas with a furry friends. http://www.vets4pets.com/stop-alabama-rot/
The advice about washing off mud after forest walks is very pertinent to us. I'm going to keep a water spray and some rags in the car from now on.
We have a probable case here in Worcs, sadly the beautiful dog died, but it isn't confirmed yet, apparently takes three weeks to confirm. The dog is walked where I used to walk, obviously don't go to that place now since I heard. However, as we do not know the incubation period I am still worried.
@Stacia how truly awful for you. All you can do at the moment is take al the precautions mentioned and keep a check for any lesions, rashes or changes in activity levels. It might be worth having a chat with your vet regarding worries over incubation and see what he suggests.
Thanks @drjs@5, the vets here seem as baffled as the vets who seem to know more, cannot remember the name, think it begins with an M and they don't seem to know what the incubation period is. It is a mysterious disease. The dog who has died here, has two other dog companions and they are unaffected so far. Someone else that I know vaguely, in a different part of Worcestershire, had three dogs affected, two died and one survived. The owner is convinced that the dog washed was the dog saved, it was a house dog, the two kenneled dogs were not washed. To be more specific, the dog who has died here lives in my immediate area.
What an awful worry for you @Stacia , and how terribly sad for the dogs lost to this awful disease , vigilance is the key I guess , for all of us x
Unconfirmed case in North Devon. I think 2 dogs. Both died. Suspected area Blackborough Woods. Awaiting test results. As soon as I hear anything will let you know.
I so wish they could find the cause - at least it would give more hope of improved veterinary care and chance of recovery and perhaps even proper preventative measures
Nothing wrong in admitting you are scared Stacia, we all are. This is such a terrifying disease. All we can do is take precautions and be vigilant for any of the symptoms. xx
Difficult to take precautions as it could be anywhere, so many trees and so much mud everywhere which worries me. However, vigilance is most important as it does give the dog a slight chance if symptoms are noticed immediately they arise. Still scared Thanks @Helen appreciate your post.
Today I sprayed Hollys legs with water before wiping off the mud. It worked a treat. She came home with clean legs for once. She also thought it was a good game when I sprayed some into her mouth!