A DISEASE which kills 90 per cent of dogs who catch it has been found in Herefordshire again, vets have confirmed.

Alabama rot causes dogs sore skin, including ulcers, and within days leads to kidney failure. Now owners have been told to remain vigilant after another confirmed case in the county.

Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists, based in Winchester, has been leading research into what it calls a “devastating disease”, gathering information on all cases and reports of confirmed cases across the country.

It said the disease was first found in the UK in 2012, and has a 90 per cent death rate.

Experts say they know of three new cases – 10 per cent of the total 2019 figure – since January 1. These cases have been identified in Herefordshire, Greater London and Exeter, but did not give a more specific location.

An interactive map on the Vets4Pets website shows where cases were found up to 2020, with fields behind the crematorium in Hereford on area highlighted.

Other areas on the map include Radnor Forest and Nash Woods in Presteigne, and Glasbury near Hay-on-Wye.

An expert in the disease from Anderson Moores has said pet owners need to be calm but vigilant.

Alabama rot specialist David Walker said: “Unfortunately, we find ourselves in the time of year when cases are most commonly identified. It is understandably worrying for dog owners; however, I must stress that this disease is still very rare.

“We’re advising dog owners across the country to remain calm but vigilant and seek advice from their local vets if their dog develops unexplained skin lesions.”

The three confirmed new cases come off the back of 47 during 2020, 19 cases in 2019 and 18 in 2018.