Dog owners in Wales are being cautioned about a heightened risk of a potentially deadly disease that can be contracted during wet walks. Animal Friends Pet Insurance has advised pet owners to take extra care when out on muddy walks with their dogs, as the risk of Alabama rot disease increases during the autumn season. Catrin George, an animal wellbeing specialist at Animal Friends Pet Insurance, explained that Alabama rot is a disease that causes blood clotting in the blood vessels, leading to kidney damage and potentially kidney failure. While the exact cause of Alabama rot is not fully understood, it is believed to spread in wet, muddy, and wooded areas commonly encountered during autumn walks. Vets recommend washing dogs after any wet and muddy outings to help prevent the disease from affecting pets.
The initial signs of Alabama rot typically manifest as lesions, ulcers, or sores appearing on the lower legs, stomach, and face of dogs. Affected dogs may lick at the wounds, leading to bald patches. Within a few days, symptoms of kidney failure may become evident, including loss of appetite, vomiting, and unusual fatigue. Pet owners are advised to promptly seek veterinary attention if their dogs display any of these symptoms without an obvious injury.
Beyond the risks associated with Alabama rot, Catrin also highlighted five other autumn hazards that dog owners should be aware of during their walks. According to data from Animal Friends, the average cost of veterinary treatment related to toxic and foreign body ingestion in 2023 amounted to £766. This underscores the importance of pet owners being mindful of potential dangers in the changing season.
One of the hazards mentioned is fallen leaves, as rotting leaves can develop into a compost-like substance containing bacteria and fungi that may cause stomach problems if ingested by dogs. Leaves may also conceal sharp sticks or branches that could injure dogs. Additionally, conkers from trees can obstruct airways and contain toxic chemicals harmful to dogs. Wild mushrooms pose a potential risk, as some varieties are toxic to both dogs and humans. Certain trees, such as yew, produce berries that are highly toxic if consumed. Another plant to be cautious of is ivy, particularly its berries, which are poisonous to dogs and people.
In the event that a dog comes into contact with a hazardous substance or ingests something toxic, it is crucial to contact a veterinarian without delay to seek appropriate treatment. By staying informed about these autumnal hazards, dog owners can help safeguard their beloved pets during outdoor excursions.