Beware the dangers of toxic algae
WITH periods of roasting hot weather interspersed with cooler weather, high summer means that watercourses that are normally filled with moving water are depleted and stagnant and this makes for ideal conditions for blue algae.
Blue-green algae is a term used to describe a group of bacteria, called cyanobacteria. They are not actually algae, but the organisms got this name because they often give the appearance of algae when they clump together in bodies of water.
There has been an increase in the reports of toxic blue green algae in several locations across the region this summer prompting pet owners to be require extra caution while walking their dogs in the near affected water bodies.
Blue green algae blooms may appear as green or greenish-brown scum on the surface of water and can contain toxins that can be harmful for animals if ingested, even in small quantities. Dogs can swallow this algae by drinking water from an affected lake, river or pond or while licking their fur after going for a swim.
Symptoms of exposure can appear within a few minutes or hours, depending on the type of toxin ingested, and commonly include: vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, disorientation, trouble breathing, seizures and blood in faeces. If left untreated, it can cause liver damage and ultimately be fatal within days.
The presence of blue green algae has been confirmed in water bodies across the country this summer including some local locations.
We know that some dogs enjoy nothing better than a paddle in a cool lake while on a walk in hot weather, but my advice would be to keep your dog on a lead during walks near water confirmed to have toxic algal blooms. While not all blue green algae are poisonous, it is impossible to tell the difference visually, so it is better to be safe than sorry.
When blue algae is known about, warning signs are often erected so look out for any warning signs put up by the Environment Agency or local councils near water bodies but if there are no signs, don’t assume that it is safe.
Keep pets on a lead and by your side around water bodies known or suspected to have bluegreen algal bloom – don’t let them swim in it or drink from it. If your dog has been swimming outside, wash it thoroughly with clean water afterwards.
Prompt veterinary treatment is key to tackling the effects of the toxins and ensuring a good chance of recovery, so if you suspect your dog has been exposed to blue green algae, rush it to your local vet without delay.