Mystery dog disease has been identified!

The disease was thought only to affect grey-hounds but since a small outbreak this year other breeds of dog are being affected and killed.

Currently there is no cure for Alabama rot which was first reported in the US in the 1980s.

Another Manchester Vet, who preferred to remain unnamed, said: “People shouldn’t worry too much about Alabama rot it is still very rare. We shouldn't panic.

“Owners should still check their dog after they have walked through wood land to see if their pet has any lesions on their legs, chest or abdomen.

“At the moment there is no known cure for the disease but early detection can be vital in saving the dog’s life. A vet will be able to treat the symptoms that dogs get when they have the disease like kidney failure for instance.

The disease is believed to be caused by a rare form of ecoli which then leads to kidney failure.