A case of Alabama Rot has been reported in Surbiton following a rise in the number of UK cases of the mysterious canine disease in recent months.

The Vets4Pets organization are tracking reported cases of Alabama Rot AKA CRGV (cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy) and said the Surbiton case was confirmed by Winchester-based vet specialists Anderson Moores.

It is the latest confirmed case of the disease according to Vets4Pets, and brings the total number of UK cases this year they have confirmed up to 39.

David Walker, a leading expert on the condition from Anderson Moores, said: “We are sad to announce more cases from this year, as we are now in the time of year when cases are most common.

“Further confirmed cases mean it is understandably very worrying for dog owners; however, this disease is still very rare, so we’re advising dog owners to remain calm but vigilant, and seek advice from their local vet if their dog develops unexplained skin lesions."

While the symptoms of Alabama Rot are well documented, the transmission of the disease remains mysterious and its cause unknown according to the RSPCA.

Dr Huw Stacey, vet and director of clinical services at Vets4Pets, has been supporting research on the condition for a number of years, and is advising dog owners to contact their vet if they have any concerns.

"While it is understandable that dog owners will be worried by Alabama Rot, it is still a very rare disease and we’d encourage owners to continue exercising their pet," he said.

“If a dog becomes affected, the best chance of recovery lies with early and intensive veterinary care...

“Treatment is supportive, but is only successful in around 20 percent of cases, which is why we’re encouraging all dog owners to use the online interactive guide to help them understand the clinical signs and confirmed locations of the condition, and visit a vet if they have any concerns," Stacey added.