Dog owners are being urged to keep their pets on leads around lakes and rivers as British Summertime approaches, due to the potentially fatal presence of toxic blue-green algae.
Veterinary Warning on Blue-Green Algae
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has reiterated its warnings to pet owners, highlighting the increased risk of toxic blue-green algae in warmer months. Also known as cyanobacteria, this harmful bacteria can produce dangerous toxins that pose severe health risks to pets, livestock, and birds—even in small quantities.
Dogs can ingest the toxins by drinking from contaminated water sources, licking their fur after swimming, or even coming into contact with algae that has been blown to the edges of lakes, ponds, or rivers.
BVA’s Advice to Dog Owners
BVA President Justine Shotton emphasized the importance of caution:
“Many dogs love nothing more than a paddle in a lake to cool off in this weather, but we’d urge pet owners to keep them on a lead during walks near water bodies confirmed to have algal blooms this summer. The majority of blooms are toxic, and it is impossible to tell the difference visually, so it is better to be safe than sorry.”
“It is also important to be aware of the symptoms of exposure, which commonly include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, disorientation, trouble breathing, seizures, and blood in the feces. Symptoms can appear within minutes or hours, depending on the toxin ingested, and can cause severe liver damage, often leading to fatal consequences if left untreated.”
As there is no known antidote for the toxins produced by blue-green algae, prompt veterinary treatment is essential for a pet’s chance of survival.
Top Safety Tips for Dog Owners
- Look out for warning signs posted by national environment agencies or local authorities near bodies of water.
- Keep dogs on a lead and close by when walking near water suspected to have algal blooms.
- Do not allow pets to swim in or drink from affected lakes, rivers, or ponds.
- After outdoor swimming, wash your dog’s coat thoroughly with clean water.
- Seek emergency veterinary care if you suspect your pet has been exposed to toxic algae.
- Report sightings of suspected blue-green algae with a photograph via the Bloomin’ Algae app and set up notifications for confirmed cases in your area.
Stay Informed and Keep Pets Safe
Pet owners are encouraged to remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions to prevent exposure to toxic algae. By staying informed and following expert advice, pet owners can ensure a safer summer for their beloved companions.
