Your Pets Daily - keeping your dog safe

Alabama Rot - 10 Confirmed Cases In 2024 - Dog Expert Explains Cause, Symptoms, and Treatment

Your Pets Daily Editor — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

2024 has already seen 10 confirmed cases of Alabama rot in the UK, which can cause ulcers, kidney failure and can even be fatal if left untreated.

Dog experts Kennel Store have explained what causes Alabama rot, what the signs and symptoms are and the dangers if dogs are affected.

Alabama rot, also known as CRGV (cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy), is a very rare but potentially life-threatening disease that blocks and damages the blood vessels in a dog's skin and kidneys. Dogs affected by Alabama rot often develop ulcers or sores (typically on the bottom part of the leg) and generally go on to develop kidney failure, which is often fatal.

What causes Alabama rot?

The exact cause of Alabama rot is unknown, although research is ongoing. Most reports come from dog owners who walk their dogs in the countryside, and most cases are reported during winter and spring.

Cases are generally less common in the summer months compared to the winter months. The first case was reported in America, in the 1980s and at first it was thought to only affect Greyhounds.

It is now understood to affect all breeds, ages and sizes of dog.

What are the symptoms of Alabama rot?

Skin ulcers that can appear on the legs or paws (these marks may appear as an area of redness, but could also present as a bruise, sting or an open sore)
Ulcers may also develop on the muzzle, tongue, head, flank and belly
Changes in appetite such as reduced appetite, excessive drinking, vomiting and lethargy are signs of acute kidney injury

How can you protect your dog?

Wash all mud off following wet and muddy walks, especially if you’ve gone through woodland areas

What is the treatment for Alabama rot?

Due to the underlying cause of Alabama rot still being unknown, there is no specific treatment. If your dog is showing symptoms of Alabama rot, it’s vital your dog is taken to the vets promptly, so a plan can be decided and treatment can begin.

Expert offers tips on keeping your dog safe at the beach this summer

Your Pets Daily Editor — Mon, 02 Aug 2021 15:19:55 +0000

Eight tips on keeping your dog safe at the beach this summer

Beware of hot sand

"Sand can become extremely hot and reach dangerous temperatures during the summer months. Your dog's sensitive paw pads could easily burn when playing in the sand. Wherever possible, keep your dog from walking on sand that's exposed to the direct sun, and monitor your pet's paw pads for signs of burning, such as redness, blisters and swelling.

The beach is no place for your four-legged friend when the temperature is high. Try to beat the heat and visit before 9 am or after 6 pm - and always check the sand and ground temperature before allowing your dog to run, walk or play."

Stop your pup from eating sand

"Sand is unavoidable when visiting the beach, and believe it or not, some dogs are known to eat sand, mostly by accident, but some pups do it purposefully. Swallowing sand is extremely dangerous for dogs as it can cause a blockage in the intestine, which is called sand impaction.

If your dog is vomiting, showing signs of constipation, has abdominal pain, reduced appetite, or is lethargic after a trip to the beach, this may indicate that a large amount of sand has been ingested. If you notice that your dog is displaying any of these symptoms, consult a veterinarian immediately. When at the beach, keep a close eye on your pup and prevent them from eating any sand and bring water to clear toys of large clumps of sand."

Provide shade

"A fun day at the beach can turn into a disaster if you don't take the correct precautions. For your dog, heatstroke can develop quickly, especially when shade isn't provided. Our furry friends can't handle the hot temperatures like us humans because they only have sweat glands in their feet and nose, which are less efficient at cooling themselves down.

Make sure you provide shade to get your dog out of the sun quickly. We recommend a pop-up beach tent, beach umbrella or a small beach canopy. If you see your dog panting and drooling excessively, and their gums have become more red than normal, they could be experiencing heatstroke. In this case, you'll need to get out of the sun and cool your dog down."

Bring plenty of fresh water

"Dogs love the beach, but playing fetch, jumping the waves, and swimming can all lead to a very thirsty dog. When our furry friends are thirty, they will almost drink anything - and this includes seawater.

Saltwater consumed in small quantities is usually not harmful and may only cause diarrhoea, but drinking larger amounts can disrupt the fluid balance in your dog's body, and high levels of salt can be fatal for your dog. It's essential when heading to the beach to bring a dog bowl and fresh water for your pup to drink."

Pack dog-friendly sunscreen

"Just like us, dogs can quickly get burned from sun exposure. This is particularly common on parts of the body that are sparsely covered with hair. Sunburn can not only cause pain for your four-legged friend but can lead to more severe health problems, such as skin cancer.

Dogs that typically have thin hair or light coloured coats are more vulnerable to sunburn, for example; Dalmatians, Boxers, Greyhounds, Beagles, Whippets and Bulldogs. But all dog breeds are at risk of sun damage because they all have areas on their body where there is little to no fur, including the belly, ears, the tip of the tail and nose.

Before heading to the beach, find a sunscreen that is designed to protect your pup. It's vital that you only use formulas that have been produced for dogs - they should not contain zinc oxide or para-aminobenzoic acid."

Protect Your Pups From Parasites

"A day at the beach is the perfect way to get some fresh air and relax. But as you search for the ideal location to lay down your towel, you should know you're not just sharing the beach with fellow ocean lovers - you'll be sharing it with some creepy parasites too.

Ticks are prevalent near beaches. They can be found in the dunes or in the grass nearby, and when our canine companions walk by and brush up against these, the ticks dislodge. Before heading on your journey, remember to pack a tick remover tool."

Keep them safe in the water

"Your dog may be a confident swimmer, but big waves and strong tides can be hazardous. Bring along an extended leash so your pup can take a dip in the sea without going too far, and purchase a dog-friendly life jacket to ensure their safety at all times.

The sea is full of hidden dangers, from sharp shells and rocks to broken glass and washed-up rubbish. All of these items can be dangerous to your dog's paw pads. Not only can some of the items be sharp and cut your pup, but they can also be dangerous if eaten. They can cause bacterial infections, cracked teeth or intestinal obstructions. Protect your pooch by investing in some dog-friendly beach boots and never leave them unattended in the water or on dry land."

Keep clear of seaweed and sea creatures

"Natural objects found in the sea that wash up on the beach, such as seaweed, dead or alive creatures, might be fun to play with but could cause serious health issues for your dog. When consumed, seaweed can be dangerous as it can cause a blockage in your dog's intestine.

Keep a close eye on your pup and prevent them from rolling in or eating anything that could make them ill. Some beaches have high levels of sea creatures, such as jellyfish and crabs, so be sure to keep them on a tight watch around the water area.

It's really important as dog owners that we don't allow our dogs to chase or disturb marine wildlife, for example, seal pups and marine birds can be prone to be disturbed by dogs. Our wild animals are just as important as our pets so it's important to be responsible around wildlife."

Dog Theft Security

Your Pets Daily Editor — Mon, 03 May 2021 07:41:56 +0000

Owning a dog can be a very rewarding experience, and with more Brits spending time at home or out walking in the country, the demand for finding a furry best friend increased. However, this surge in Brits wanting to own a dog also resulted in an increase in dog theft across the UK; in fact there has been a 170% increase in dog theft since lockdown started, with many breeds being targeted for resale at extortionate prices or breeding.

It’s vital for dog owners to ensure their precious pets are kept safe from thieves. Whether it be when they’re in the home or running around in the garden, it’s important to ensure all access points to the home are secure. To help combat this increasing threat, security experts Yale have created a checklist to help dog owners ensure their homes are kept secure in the fight against dog theft.

Check all locks on doors and windows. If any locks are faulty, loose, or worn consider replacing them. Kitemarked locks such as the Platinum 3 Star Euro Profile Cylinder offer the highest level of protection from all forms of attack.

If your external doors are fitted with a nightlatch, which is started to feel lose, you might want to consider upgrading. A Yale Maximum Security Nightlatch is Secure by Design approved and kitemarked to BS3621 offering the maximum level of protection.

Make sure your perimeter fences and walls are all in good shape. Also, check that any gate locks are in working order, if a replacement is required ensure a maximum or high security padlock with high quality waterproof hasp is used for protection all year round.

Check your security lighting is all working correctly, and that sensors are not obscured by plants or trees. A brightly-lit property is not an attractive proposition for burglars, who prefer dark areas in which to work. Yale’s All-in-One Security Camera works as a security light, CCTV camera and alarm in one, the smart device allows you to keep a check on your home, from anywhere in the world via your smartphone, so you can switch the light on and offer when required.

Domestic CCTV is known to be a key deterrent for potential burglars. Thanks to wireless technology, systems such as Yale’s Smart Home CCTV kit are easy to fit and install and offer great value for money.

Gravel pathways are a low-cost (and attractive) way to deter thieves from entering your home. It’s almost impossible to step quietly on gravel or other loose surfaces, so intruders are less likely to attempt a break-in.

Keep downstairs windows and dog flaps locked at night when possible. If your pet needs a source of fresh air overnight, consider moving their bed to an upstairs room where it’s safe to open the window.

An alarm acts as a strong visual deterrent, as well as warning you immediately when someone enters your home. Smart alarms such as the Yale Sync Smart Alarm integrates with your phone, to give you updates wherever you are and also has pet sensors, allowing your pet to move freely around the home without creating a false alarm.

Keep any ladders or tools safely under lock and key. If a burglar can grab a ladder from your garden, there’s a chance they could use it to access your home. Consider locking your ladder with a security cable and a maximum security padlock Yale High Security Weatherproof padlocks are designed to withstand all types of weather conditions, making them ideal for outdoor use.

Walking your dog, the same route everyday can make it easier for thieves to track and plan where your dog could be stolen from. Varying your walks will make it difficult.

It’s important to get your dog microchipped. Although it will not prevent your dog from being stolen, but it will help with identification if it’s found.

Consider joining your local Neighbourhood Watch scheme. It helps the entire community, and you get the whole street keeping an eye out for any suspicious behaviour.

Many of us consider our pets to be part of the family and it’s important to protect them from harm. Protect the ones you love by making sure your home and garden security is up to date.

To find out more about the range of security products from Yale, visit www.yalehome.co.uk

Your Pets Daily - keeping your dog safe

Alabama Rot - 10 Confirmed Cases In 2024 - Dog Expert Explains Cause, Symptoms, and Treatment

What causes Alabama rot?

What are the symptoms of Alabama rot?

How can you protect your dog?

What is the treatment for Alabama rot?

Category

Tags

Expert offers tips on keeping your dog safe at the beach this summer

Eight tips on keeping your dog safe at the beach this summer

Beware of hot sand

Stop your pup from eating sand

Provide shade

Bring plenty of fresh water

Pack dog-friendly sunscreen

Protect Your Pups From Parasites

Keep them safe in the water

Keep clear of seaweed and sea creatures

Category

Tags

Dog Theft Security

Category

Tags