SIX CASES of a fatal dog disease has been confirmed within a 20 mile radius of Stroud, according to information from Vets4Pets.

The latest reported case of Alabama rot was confirmed in Stonehouse near Stroud this week which means there have now been 45 instances of the disease throughout the country so far in 2018.

Unfortunately, due to confidentiality, further details of the dog, owner or practise involved cannot be given out, but the dog was walked around the Stonehouse area and in the Brecon Beacons.

David Walker, the UK’s leading expert on the condition, from Anderson Moores, said: "We are sad to announce more cases in 2018, making it the worst year so far for cases of Alabama rot.

"However, it is still very rare so we’re advising dog owners to remain calm but vigilant, and seek advice from their local vet if their dog develops unexplained skin lesions."

The first sign of the disease is normally a skin sore that was not caused by an injury, these sores tend to be found on the lower half of the leg and appear as a distinct swelling, a patch of red skin or they are open and similar to an ulcer.

"While there is currently no known way to prevent a dog from contracting the disease, any concerned owners should contact Vets4Pets for advice," explained Mr Walker.

"A higher level of suspicion for Alabama rot may arise following analysis of a skin lesion sample, but at the moment we can only provide 100 percent confirmation of the disease after analysis of kidney tissue.

"Unless samples of both skin and kidney are analysed, we can’t confirm if a dog has had Alabama Rot and the case will remain suspected."

Unfortunately, research must still be carried out to gain a greater understanding of this fatal disease.

This is largely because, although treatment is supportive it is only successful in around 20 percent of cases, according to Dr Huw Stacey of Vets4Pets.

The doctor went on to say: "If a dog becomes affected, the best chance of recovery lies with early and intensive veterinary care at a specialist facility such as Anderson Moores.

"Any dog owners who are worried that their pet might have Alabama Rot should contact their veterinary practice immediately.

"This will help build knowledge about the disease and also give a dog the best chance of survival."

If you are concerned about your pet or to find out more about Alabama rot visit vets4pets.com/stop-alabama-rot