Blue-green algae occurs naturally in
bodies of freshwater, but some kinds can be toxic to humans and lethal to
animals.
It is impossible to tell by looking if the algae are the dangerous
kind just, so it is advisable to not enter or allow you pets to enter the water if you suspect the presence of blue-green algae.
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Vets are urging dog owners to be
extra careful when walking their pets near rivers or lakes this summer as the
hot weather has prompted concerns about an increase in toxic blue-green algae.
Blue green algae, or cyanobacteria,
are a group of bacteria that can contain dangerous toxins which are be harmful
and potentially fatal to pets, livestock, and birds if ingested.
Symptoms commonly include vomiting,
diarrhoea, trouble breathing, seizures, and blood in faeces. Left untreated the
toxins can cause liver damage and death.
Blue-green algae cannot actually be
seen until they start clumping together. Once they clump, there are a few
different ways blue-green algae appear in water:
- They can look like a green or blueish
scum on the water
- It might look like someone has thrown
blue or green paint into the water
- They might clump together to look
like seaweed
- They can appear in brown clumps
alongside other weeds in the water
- They can appear as green flakes or
brown dots
- They can turn water cloudy and give
it a green, blue-green, or greenish-brown appearance
- You might see foaming on the edge of
the shore, which can look like sewage pollution.
Better to be Safe
than Sorry
Some, but not all, blue-green algae
species release dangerous toxins into the water. There is no way of telling if
algae are toxic just by looking at the water and even blue-green algae are not always
toxic – some types are safe while others are only toxic at certain times of
year when they are blooming. If you are worried there may be blue-green algae,
it is best to keep your dog far away from the water. Do not let your pets
touch or drink from the water.
Sometimes if blue-green algae are
present, you might notice dead fish or other wildlife in the water. Never
let your dog drink from water with dead fish in it.
A paddle in a cool lake may be your
dog’s favourite outdoor activity at this time of the year, but pet owners are
urged to keep their dogs on a lead during walks near water bodies confirmed to
have algal blooms.