Dog owners in Gedling borough are being warned to be careful when out walking with their pets.
The warning comes after a case of the condition known as Alabama Rot was reported in North Nottinghamshire.
The rare but serious flesh-eating bug develops after muddy walks.
The first sign of the disease is often a sore on the skin. This is usually found under a dog’s elbow or knee. The skin can become red and the sore makes it look like an open ulcer.
Other symptoms can include fatigue, bloody diarrhoea, vomiting, loss of appetite and drooling.
After a few days, the dog will start showing signs of kidney failure.
According to Vets4Pets, which is tracking the spread of the disease, only around 30 per cent of dogs survive once diagnosed with the condition.
Vets4Pets are tracking where cases have been reported.
There were fears on social media that cases had been reports of the condition after walks at Gedling Borough Park, but the site isn’t included on the map produced by the veterinary group.
You can find advice here: https://www.vets4pets.com/pet-health-advice/alabama-rot/
What do vets advise?
The exact cause of contracting the disease is unknown, although many vets believe that dogs can get infected from mud on their paws and legs.
There is no known cure for Alabama Rot, but the best chance for survival is if the condition is diagnosed early. Vets will first treat skin sores and kidney failure, but could refer your pet to a specialist hospital.
