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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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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

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News Shorts
RCVS members invited to question Council candidates

RCVS members have been invited to submit questions to candidates for this year's RCVS Council election.

With 15 candidates standing for three available positions, vets have been invited to submit a question of their choosing before voting starts. These questions will be collated, with each candidate answering one question of their choice.

It is recommended that members read the candidates' biographies and statements before submitting questions. One question per member can be submitted to vetvote26@rcvs.org.uk before Wednesday, 25 February 2026.

The RCVS Council election is due to start in March.

With only two candidates for two positions on the VN Council, there will be no VN Council elections this year. Meghan Conroy RVN and Lauren Hargrave RVN will begin their three year terms at RCVS' AGM in July.