Dog owners have been warned to keep their beloved pets away from mud after fears the killer disease, Alabama Rot, could be picked up from it.
Alabama Rot also knew as CRGV is a deadly illness which has attacked many canine companions.
The crippling disease causes the dog to vomit and develop skin lesions and in 80 percent of cases death.
Vets have urged pet owners to thoroughly clean their pets after walking in mud amid fears the disease could be contracted from it.
Official advice from the Dogs Trust said: ‘Where possible, stick to dry paths and keep dogs out of muddy or wet areas.
‘Wash off any mud after your walk so you can check for any lesions or wounds and if you spot any, go to your vet.’
Despite the warning, the exact cause of the horrendous disease is still unknown.
Dubbed by vets as the ‘dog’s black death’, once Alabama Rot strikes it is often already too late.
Around 135 cases have been recorded since 2012 but some fear the bad weather experienced this winter could make 2018 the worst year yet.
The illness is believed to thrive in cold, wet soil, as around 60% of the cases occur in the first three months of the year.
Last year, the highest number of deaths were recorded at 37, but in 2018 there have already been 29 confirmed cases.
Dubbed by vets as the ‘dog’s black death’, once Alabama Rot strikes it is often already too late, with 70 to 80 percent of all cases being fatal and no known effective treatment
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