River algae risk for dogs
Hawke’s Bay Regional Council has warned dog owners to be diligent about walking their pets near stony rivers due to toxic algae. The warning comes after several dogs around the region have been unwell and needing veterinary assistance after going near potentially algae-filled rivers and streams.
AHBRCspokeswoman said their guidance is to keep animals out of the water if the toxic algae phormidium is spotted.
“Our advice is to always treat the black growth on rocks in water and the drying mats as toxic, and stay out of the water ifyou see it,” she said. The chance of coming into contact with potentially toxic algae increases insummerdue towarmer temperatures.
Thespokeswoman said if you, your family or pet comesin contact with the toxic algae medical assistance should be sought.
“The main risk comes from humanstouching it, or dogs eating it. If your child becomes ill after going to the river it’s best to take them to the doctor, and to take dogs to the vet,” she said.
Dog deaths have occurred due to phormidium poisoning, according to HBRC– the Tukituki river is prone to this algae because of its stony environment.
The council has released adog owner’s guide to algae in rivers.
Phormidium occurs in shallow river and looks “like a blackish mat that forms on rocks”, the spokeswoman said.
It has the potential to produce toxins and is a formof cyanobacteria – blue-green algae.
Under certain conditions, this algae has the potential to release toxins into the water at concentrations high enough to be a risk to dogs and humans.
TheHBRChave told dog owners to look for the warning signs and to check social media for updates and newson the state of the region’s rivers.
Thespokeswoman also said to be vigilant about letting dogs or children scavenge at the water’s edge if it is expected that phormidium might be present.
She said if the ‘black mat algae’ peels off the rocks and floats to the riverside it can pose a serious problem.
“If enough of these mats collect at side of rivers, there is a risk that dogs will eat these potentially toxic organisms,” thespokeswoman said.
“Dogs are attracted by the musky smell given off as the mats decay.”