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Alabama rot is a deadly disease that poses a great threat to dog walkers everywhere. It has been reported to have spread in South West of the UK. Vets have issued a warning to pet owners to be vigilant as 90 percent of the cases are fatal.

The disease is not as widespread in the US but can still cause health risks to dogs once infected. An online tool was launched to help dog owners track nearby cases of Alabam Rot.

The site also includes helpful information on how to spot the disease, how to prevent it and what to do if your dog has acquired the illness. The site uses data provided by Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists.

According to Metro, the online tool by Vets4Pets has confirmed reported cases within a 50 mile radius. Users may share results via Facebook or Twitter to help spread the word.

Clinically known as idiopathic cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy (CRGV) or commonly known as Alabama Rot is a nasty bug of unknown cause. It affects all breeds of dogs. Early symptoms are lesions appearing on a dog's skin and paws. Sore and open wounds most commonly appear below the elbow or knee, or on the belly or muzzle.

According to Plymouth Herald, 78 dogs have been confirmed with the disease in the UK since 2012, where 14 where confirmed in the first four months of 2016. The illness first appeared in the late 1980s that affected greyhounds in America. It has been found in at least 27 counties in England and Wales since.

The symptoms can develop into sickness over the next two to ten days. The sickness could progress into symptoms of kidney failure, such as vomiting, reduced appetite and tiredness. Pet owners are advised to contact a vet immediately if they see any of the symptoms.

For more information about the disease, concerned dog owners should visit www.vets4pets.com/stop-alabama-rot/.