Vets issue key advice to dog owners over ‘mystery illness’ after woodland walks

Veterinarians have issued an urgent warning to dog owners to remain vigilant this autumn as concerns about a ‘mysterious seasonal illness’ affecting dogs after woodland walks continue to climb.

This follows an increase in pet owners searching for ‘Seasonal Canine Illness’ (SCI) on Google, whilst others desperately seek answers about their animals’ concerning symptoms on social media platforms.

One worried Reddit user posted: “We have a 14-month-old golden retriever who we have had since he was 12 weeks old. Since October, earliest I’ve noticed, he has been biting and itching his paws excessively to the point of bleeding sometimes.”

The owner received advice to visit their veterinarian for an examination – whilst fellow users recommended investigating ‘Seasonal Canine Illness’.

According to a Blue Cross statement: “Seasonal Canine Illness (SCI) is a very rare condition that affects dogs in autumn (most commonly September) who have recently walked in a woodland area.”

“It affects dogs of any size, shape, age or gender. We don’t currently know what causes SCI and there is no cure, however you should still contact your vet as soon as possible if you’re concerned your dog may have SCI.”

The primary symptoms typically emerge within three days of visiting woodland areas and include vomiting, diarrhoea, tiredness, stomach pain, muscle tremors and high temperature.

The statement further reads: “SCI is rare but if you suspect that your dog is showing any symptoms contact your vet immediately, especially if it’s within 72 hours of visiting a woodland area.

“Due to researchers not understanding the cause of SCI, there is unfortunately no specific cure. However, some of the symptoms can be alleviated with anti-sickness medication and antibiotics.

“If treatment is given quickly, most dogs do recover from SCI.

“In some rare cases, SCI has been known to be very severe and sadly some dogs do not survive. But with early treatment, recovery is usually possible.

“Luckily, research carried out by the Animal Health Trust suggests that there’s been a decrease in the number of fatal cases since 2010.”

Echoing this, vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan stated: “Although uncommon, Seasonal Canine Illness is a condition that has been reported in the UK during autumn, most often after woodland walks.

“The exact cause is not yet known, but symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite and tiredness can appear within a few days.

“Because it is difficult to predict or prevent, the most important step is to keep an eye on your dog after walks and contact your vet straight away if you notice anything unusual.”