A Berkshire dog owner has spoken of his heartbreak after his seemingly healthy whippet died within weeks due to a rare and often fatal illness known as Alabama rot. Shaun Reynolds, 29, from Lambourn, was left devastated by the rapid and unexpected decline of his four-year-old companion, Willow, whose sudden symptoms left even veterinary professionals perplexed.
It all began in February of last year when Willow began to limp unexpectedly. Initially, Shaun and his vet suspected a minor issue, such as a fracture or a simple infection in her foot. However, the situation quickly became more alarming. “The sore on her foot doubled in size within the hour,” Shaun recounted, describing the rapid escalation that forced him to rush Willow back for further treatment.
Despite prompt medical attention and rounds of medication, Willow’s health went downhill alarmingly fast. Mere days after the initial limp, she began exhibiting signs of severe illness, including lethargy and vomiting. Blood tests confirmed her kidneys were failing, at which point the vets began to suspect the rare but deadly Alabama rot. Willow was referred to a specialist in the hope she could be saved.
Alabama rot, officially known as cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy (CRGV), is a disease that primarily affects dogs, causing skin sores and, in severe cases, kidney failure. The condition is so uncommon that, since its identification in the UK back in 2012, only about 330 cases have been confirmed nationwide. With such a low survival rate—estimated at around 10%—the prospects for stricken pets are often bleak.
Willow spent two weeks in intensive care at Anderson Moores, a specialist clinic renowned for its expertise in Alabama rot. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, her condition continued to deteriorate. Shaun faced a heart-wrenching decision when options for further treatment offered little hope of recovery or a decent quality of life. “When I saw her, I’d never seen a dog so ill. I had to let her go rather than prolong her suffering,” Shaun said, reflecting on his experience as someone raised in a family of dog lovers.
Following Willow’s passing on 5 March 2024, Shaun channelled his grief into action, launching a fundraising campaign for Alabama Rot Research, a charity dedicated to understanding and combating the disease. He hopes that by sharing Willow’s story, he can help prevent other dog owners from facing similar heartbreak. His ongoing efforts include a GoFundMe appeal and an upcoming community event at Lambourn Sports Club, where the football pitch will be transformed into a whippet racing track in Willow’s honour.
The September event aims not only to raise vital research funds but also to foster greater understanding of Alabama rot among the local community. Activities will include music, games, an auction, food, and a celebration of Willow’s racing prowess. Shaun highlights the importance of awareness, as many pet owners are still unaware of the disease. “Even though she only lived for four years, Willow was immensely loved. If telling her story can help other dogs, it’s the least I can do,” he stated.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) advises dog owners to look out for the key warning signs of Alabama rot, which often starts as skin lesions or unexplained redness, most commonly below the knee or elbow, but also on the face, chest, or underbelly. Other symptoms include vomiting, reduced appetite, and lethargy. The cause remains unclear, but researchers suggest a link with mud or wet conditions, urging owners to wash their dogs’ paws after muddy walks.
Alabama rot continues to baffle experts, with no known cure or consistent cause identified. The illness remains incredibly rare, yet its rapid progression and high fatality make awareness particularly important. For Shaun Reynolds, turning personal tragedy into public education and advocacy offers a path towards hope—and perhaps, in time, prevention or a cure.
Donations to the Alabama Rot Research fundraiser can be made via Shaun’s GoFundMe page, and tickets for the upcoming celebration of Willow’s life will be available soon. Shaun’s commitment stands as a testament to the lasting bond between people and their pets, and the lengths to which owners will go to protect them, even in the face of uncertainty.