New dog killer disease in U.K.

A number of dog walkers in Hampshire have found their pets to be suffering from kidney failure after a walk in the woods and no one knows for sure what’s causing the trouble.  It strikes quickly and att least a dozen dogs have already died.   It’s thought it could be picked up from contaminated water or some kind of poisoning.   Vets think it could be linked to a toxin produced by e-coli.  Dogs who go splashing through slimy puddles or swim in murky ponds could be most at risk.  Pets should also be kept away from possibly contaminated bird or animal carcases.

There’s a similar disease in the U.S. called Alabama Rot and this too has fatal consequences.  Veterinary Health Authorities are investigating a link and whether it has spread to the U.K.

So far, dog deaths have only been in the south of England but it would be sensible to watch out for any signs of illness after your woodland dog walks – the only chance of saving a dog who has picked up the disease, is immediate  veterinary attention.  The Department of the Environment has ruled out chemical contamination from water. It’s a mystery illness and one with very serious consequences.