BBC South Today has highlighted the dangers from CRGV "Alabama Rot" which is prevalent in the winter. The first cases were reported in the New Forest more than a decade ago, and reporters spoke to owners who'd lost pets, as well as NFDOG and vets about the risk, and what can be done to mitigate it. 

There have been more than 300 cases in 13 years, so while CRGV is not common, its effect is devastating as some 90% of dogs which contract it, sadly die. Research has identified the DNA of the disease, and further work is going on to devise both an instant test, and recommended treatment plans. Much of this work has been funded by NFDOG.

The BBC story also featured on Radio Solent and the BBC's news website reaching an audience of some 300,000 people.  You can watch the story below:

The advice is simple – if you walk in a cold, wet, and muddy place, please seriously consider washing your dog's feet with cold tap water after each walk to minimise the risk of infection. If you spot any cuts or lesions, or feel your dog is off colour, please take your dog to your vet as soon as you can.