A CASE of the rare deadly dog disease Alabama Rot has been confirmed in Otley.

Nine new cases in total of the condition were confirmed in the UK this week by veterinary specialist referral centre Anderson Moores.

The other cases were located in Paddock Wood in Kent; Croespenmaen in Caerphilly; Seaham in County Durham; Lichfield and Newchurch in Staffordshire; Budleigh Salterton in Devon; Suckley in Worcestershire; and Lower Kingswood in Surrey.

That brings the total number of incidences of Alabama Rot so far this year to 12.

Also known as CRGV (cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy), the first sign of the disease is usually unexplained lesions appearing on the dog's legs, chest or abdomen.

David Walker from Anderson Moores, who is an expert on the condition, 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 owners to remain calm but vigilant and to seek advice from their local vet if their dog develops unexplained skin lesions.

"While there is currently no known way to prevent a dog from contracting the disease, any concerned dog owners should visit www.vets4pets.com/stop-alabama-rot/ for advice and a map of confirmed cases."

The new cases mean that that the UK has now had 216 confirmed incidences of Alabama Rot, across 44 counties, since 2012 with the highest number occurring in Greater Manchester, Dorset, Devon and the New Forest, in Hampshire.

Vet and director of Clinical Services at Vets4Pets, Dr Huw Stacey, said: "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.

"If a dog becomes affected the best chance of recovery lies with early and intensive veterinary care at a specialist facility such as Anderson Moores.

"Treatment is supportive but is only successful in about 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."

The disease is thought to be picked up on the paws and legs of dogs during muddy walks so owners are being advised to always wash off woodland mud and regularly check for signs (lesions) of CRGV - and if they have any doubts to call a vet.