It has been confirmed that Alabama Rot did not kill a dog that was walked almost exclusively in Par.
At the beginning of February a veterinary practice revealed that tests were being carried out after a dog was put to sleep and Alabama Rot was suspected.
A number of cases of the mysterious disease, officially known as CRGV (cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy), have previously been confirmed.
A statement from Kernow Veterinary Group said: "We reported about a suspect case of Alabama Rot in Par at the start of February. We are now able to advise you of the results of our investigations.
"Tests have confirmed that Alabama Rot was NOT the cause of the kidney failure and subsequent death of a lovely dog.
"The results have removed the concerns about walking dogs on Par Beach and also the running track. Although the true cause of this fatal disease is still unknown we continue to advise dog owners to try to keep away from very muddy areas.
"If you do walk your dog in muddy areas we advise thoroughly washing them with water when you get home. Beaches still appear for now to be a safer option for exercise in the winter."
What is Alabama Rot?
CRGV is a disease caused by damage to blood vessels of the skin and kidney. It causes tiny blood clots to form in the blood vessels which blocks them and can ultimately lead to damage of the affected tissue. In the skin, this causes ulceration; however, in the kidney it can lead to severe organ dysfunction (kidney failure).
What causes CRGV?
The cause at this time remains unknown but investigations are ongoing.
How do I stop my dog from getting CRGV?
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.
