EXPERTS are trying to find the cause of a deadly disease which claimed the life of a dog in Guiseley.

The animal had to be put down after being diagnosed with Alabama Rot in December. Although the disease is rare the number of cases have almost doubled across the UK in the last year. The Guiseley death was one of ten cases across the UK since December.

The cause of the disease - which can lead to kidney failure - is still unknown but pet owners are being reassured they do no need to avoid any specific areas.

On its facebook page the Guiseley branch of White Cross Vets says: “We are sad to announce that a suspected case of Cutaneous and Renal Glomerular Vasculopathy (Alabama Rot) was seen at our practice in mid December. The dog was immediately referred for specialist treatment, but sadly had to be euthanised, and samples sent to a veterinary surgery in Hampshire have since confirmed the diagnosis.

“Alabama rot is a very rare disease, which at present is of unknown cause. It occurs very sporadically and is extremely unusual in this part of the country.

“There is no specific reason to avoid walking in any particular area, but we recommend cleaning your dogs’ paws after coming in from a walk, though it is unknown if this is of benefit.

“The initial signs of Alabama Rot, include unexplained sores or swellings on the skin, particularly on the legs or mouth. It is important to remember that the vast majority of skin lesions will not be a result of Alabama Rot, but do get in touch if you have any concerns.”

Alabama Rot causes tiny clots in blood vessels which can lead to ulceration of the skin or kidney failure. At this stage the cause of the disease is unknown but investigations are being carried out.

Veterinary specialists Anderson Moores confirmed the latest figures last week, including the Guiseley case.

David Walker, who is an expert on the condition, from Anderson Moores, said: “Although the figures have almost doubled since 2016, it is important that dog owners remain calm, but vigilant for signs of the disease, particularly over the coming months, as we are now in the peak season for cases of the disease.”

Advice on the Anderson Moores website says: “Unfortunately, as the cause is currently unknown, it is very difficult to give specific advice about prevention. You may wish to consider bathing any area of your dog which becomes wet or muddy on a walk; however, at this stage we do not know if this is necessary or of any benefit.

It adds: “Cases of CRGV have been reported from across many different counties in the UK and we are not currently advising dog owners to avoid any particular locations. Although an environmental cause for this disease is considered possible it has not been proven with testing to date.”

CRGV has only been seen in dogs - it has not been found in other animals or in owners of affected dogs.

The other new cases were in Sacriston, Bury, Bolton, Leek, Petworth, Brighton, West Coker, Bishop’s Tawton, and Presteigne.

Visit https://www.andersonmoores.com/owner/CRGV.php for further information.