Seasonal Canine Illness - update from the AHT
There is no new information on the causes of SCI (seasonal canine illness) but advice from the Animal Health Trust to dog owners remains vitally important. Know what to look out for and help to raise awareness of this mystery disease which can strike between August and November - and can affect any dog walked in any woodland.
Seasonal Canine Illness (SCI) is a mystery illness affecting dogs during the autumn; no one knows what causes it. It is normally characterised by vomiting, which may be accompanied by diarrhoea and lethargy and these clinical signs are usually witnessed within three days of having roamed in a woodland area. Unfortunately, in some cases, SCI becomes severe very quickly and, sadly, some dogs do not survive. Cases have been reported all over the UK, are generally seen from August onwards, peak in September and may be seen in to November.
Go to your vet immediately if you think your dog could have SCI - prompt veterinary attention could make the difference between life and death. If dogs get veterinary treatment quickly, they tend to recover well after a week or so.
The AHT's updated list of FAQs is here.