During the summer months many dog owners will enjoy scenic walks with their pooch, often near lakes, streams and ponds – but there could be danger lurking, says PDSA veterinary surgeon Catherine Burke.
Blue-green algae can grow in all aquatic environments, but it’s most prevalent in still or stagnant water, like lakes or rivers, during summer.
This particular type of bacteria is highly poisonous to animals, and can sadly be fatal, or result in long-term health problems for those that survive.
Dogs are particularly at risk, as they are more likely to drink from ponds while out on a walk, or groom themselves after swimming in affected water. However, the more aware we are of the potential dangers, the better we can protect our precious four-legged friends.
What does blue-green algae look like?
Blue-green algae often appears as a green or blueish scum, but sometimes has a brown tinge and it’s seen on the water’s surface It can sometimes clump up and the blooms can create foam on the shoreline.
There’s no way of telling if algae is toxic just by looking at it, and some types of blue-green algae are only dangerous at certain times of year, but always be cautious and don’t take any risks around it.
How can you protect your dog from blue-green algae?
Be vigilant when walking your dog near any form of water, and if it looks bright green in colour, avoid at all costs. Never let your pet drink from a pond or lake with dead fish or animals in either, the water could be dangerously toxic and make your pet extremely ill with potentially fatal consequences.
Your local council will put up signposts in areas regularly affected by blue-green algae, so make sure you scan the surroundings for any indication of danger before letting your dog go for a swim.
What are the symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning?
Symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning can occur very quickly (within 15 minutes to several days after exposure) and even a small amount can be lethal to a dog, so it’s important to act quickly and contact your vet immediately. Signs to look out for include vomiting, twitching, seizures, diarrhoea, increased thirst, drooling, breathing difficulties, or a collapse.
- Why is chocolate poisonous to dogs - and what are the symptoms of chocolate poisoning?
- 15 poisonous plants to dogs: vet warns about deadly flowers, trees, shrubs and bulbs
What to do if you spot blue-green algae
If you spot blue-green algae but there are no signposts to warn dog owners, you should report it to the Environment Agency on 0800 80 70 60. They’ll test the water and put up signage in the surrounding area to warn owners and help prevent any potential future cases.
Find more information about blue-green algae poisoning in dogs
Discover more advice for keeping dogs happy and healthy in hot weather
- Dogs are more likely to get sunstroke than humans - and it can be fatal. Here's how to keep dogs cool in hot weather
- Why dogs pant: Understanding normal behaviour and identifying warning signs
- Vets warn hot ground burns pet paws
- Car sickness in dogs: how to treat and prevent motion sickness in dogs when they travel