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Vets confirm first Alabama rot case in East Anglia
‘Although an environmental trigger is suspected as a factor in this disease, it is important to point out that this has not been confirmed.’
Disease proves fatal for recently-holidayed dog in Manningtree 

Vets have confirmed a fatal case of Alabama rot in a dog in Manningtree. It is the first time the disease has been detected in East Anglia.

The dog was taken to the Brantham branch of Highcroft Veterinary Practice. Vets noted that the dog had recently holidayed in an area where previous Alabama rot cases have been confirmed.

In a Facebook post, the practice said: ‘Whilst the cause of this condition remains unknown and thus the incubation period… no one can know whether the condition was contracted locally or whilst the dog was on holiday.

‘Although an environmental trigger is suspected as a factor in this disease, it is important to point out that this has not been confirmed.’

Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists said the case in Manningtree, along with a recent case in Devon, brings the total number of confirmed cases to 188 since 2012. There have been 13 cases so far this year.

Dogs affected by the disease usually have skin lesions on the lower limbs or mouth/tongue, before developing kidney failure. It is thought the disease is picked up on the paws and legs on muddy walks. 

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
New guidance for antibiotic use in rabbits

New best practice guidance on the responsible use of antibiotics in rabbits has been published by the BSAVA in collaboration with the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWA&F).

The guidance is free and has been produced to help veterinary practitioners select the most appropriate antibiotic for rabbits. It covers active substance, dose and route of administration all of which are crucial factors when treating rabbits owing to the risk of enterotoxaemia.

For more information and to access the guide, visit the BSAVALibrary.