Questionnaire to help investigation into New Forest dog deaths

Following a number of dog deaths in the New Forest, Hampshire the Animal Health Trust is asking for dog walkers to fill out a questionnaire to help with investigations as to the cause.

"A recent spate of dog deaths in the New Forest in Hampshire has prompted our scientists to assist in an on-going investigation into this mystery dog illness.

Dog owners are advised to look out for wounds or lesions on the limbs or face of their dog which will not heal. Affected dogs then go on to develop signs of severe depression, loss of appetite, and vomiting, quickly accompanied by acute injury to the kidneys, which is understood to have proven fatal in all but two cases to date.

If you have walked your dog in the New Forest Fordingbridge area since the beginning of 2013, please complete this questionnaire, even if your dog has not been affected. 

The actual cause of acute kidney failure, and its link to the initial wounds, is a mystery. This forms the focus of the current investigation which is being led by Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists in Winchester in collaboration with Forest Veterinary Clinic in Fordingbridge - the area which has been most affected. Lynwood Vets is also closely involved with the investigation, as it has seen a number of cases.
David Walker, Head of Internal Medicine at Anderson Moores, said: “We are working with a number of veterinary and medical colleagues in the UK and the US to try and identify the cause of this concerning cluster of cases as quickly as we can. Pet owners should seek veterinary attention if they identify a wound on their dog’s legs or face. “

Dr Richard Newton, our Head of Disease Surveillance and Epidemiology, said: “Input from dog walkers is essential to progress the investigation, even if their dog wasn’t affected. The questionnaire will provide vital information to help in identifying areas of highest risk, and possibly factors that contribute to the condition in this area of the New Forest.”

It is important for dog owners walking their pets in the New Forest to be vigilant. If your dog develops the clinical signs as mentioned above, seek advice from your local vet immediately.

If you are a dog owner and have any concerns or questions, please direct your enquiries to Forest Veterinary Clinic on 01425 652221 or by emailing: forestvetsAKI@aol.co.uk If you are a vet, please direct your enquiries to Anderson Moores on 01962 76792 or by emailing info@andersonmoores.com.
A hard copy of the New Forest questionnaire can be provided by emailing info@aht.org.uk."