Warning after lab was poisoned by algae

of the Allan Water where the dog was swimming.

Their spokesperson said: “We have had no previous reports of blue-green algae in the Allan Water which is fast flowing at this point. Blue-green algae is possible in rivers, though more likely in ponds, lochs or slow flowing rivers.

“If anyone is concerned about water quality or potential pollution incidents we would encourage them to contact SEPA as early as possible so we can gather the required information and investigate. Our pollution hotline is open 24 hours a day on 0800807060.”

As well as harming dogs, the algae can cause skin rashes, sickness, stomach pains, fever and headaches in humans. There have been some reports of more serious illnesses including liver and brain damage.

Pet owners are urged to contact a vet immediately if they suspect poisoning.

Dogs should not drink or even swim in the water containing blue-green algae.

Blue-green algae can look like green flakes, greenish bundles or brown dots in a pond, lake or stream and is most common during the hotter, drier summer months when there is less rain.

When the algae blooms, it can look like a blue-green scum has appeared on the surface of the water and has been reported to look similar to pea soup.

When the bacteria that form the algae clumps together it produces harmful toxins which stop a dog’s liver from functioning properly.

Exposure to toxic blue-green algae is often fatal, and can also cause long term health problems in dogs that survive after drinking or swimming in algae-contaminated water and it can even kill a dog just 15 minutes to an hour after drinking contaminated water.

Pets may show any of a host of symptoms, including; vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, unconsciousness, confusion, drooling and breathing difficulties.

Blue-green algae is also highly toxic to cats.

He was crying all night and sick. I’d hate anyone else to have a dog affected by it. It was traumatic to see the dog rolling around in pain