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https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/blue-green-algae-risks-to-dogs/
Every summer we hear about toxic pond algae. And… as dog owners, of course we want our dogs to be able to romp and play… and cool off in the water.
This danger is not a new one and there are algae blooms every year in states across this country. This year has been exceptionally bad for algae blooms and for dogs who are dying from consuming the blooms.
So… what is toxic pond algae?
Algae occur naturally in water, but there are certain types of algae that are toxic. The Blue-Green algae are harmful and they are known as cyanobacteria, which means they are “primitive,” photosynthetic organisms that feed off the sun to make their own energy and release oxygen and sometimes toxins in the process. This type of algae (blue-green) can produce different types of poisons that can affect the liver or brain function and is appearing because of polluted runoff from farms and from high temperatures. The cyanobacteria from these outbreaks (cyanotoxins) has not only been associated with dog illnesses and deaths, but also has been known to be the cause of many human health issues, like diarrhea and cancer.
https://www.climatecentral.org/gallery/graphics/algae-blooms-and-climate-change
“Blue-green algae is a bacteria that during certain times of year, certain weather conditions, will produce a toxin that’s very harmful to dogs,” said Dr. Julie Schildt, an emergency and critical care veterinarian at the University of Tennessee’s School of Veterinary Medicine.
What does toxic pond algae look like?
Toxic pond algae sort of looks like foam or scum on the top of the water. The harmful blooms can be very pretty in color- they can be blue, vibrant green, brown or red. Sometimes the blooms look like paint that is floating on top of the water. But… don’t be fooled!!! These are toxic!!! Toxic pond algae usually stink, so be attentive to smells around lakes or ponds. Even though it has a nasty smell, sometimes animals are attracted to the smell and taste of the blooms, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency.
Are these algae growing in my state? Yes!! These blooms have been seen in large freshwater lakes, smaller inland lakes, rivers, reservoirs and marine coastal areas in all 50 states.
And… for those of you who have swimming pools or small fish ponds in your backyard, be sure to properly sanitize the water in them because toxic pond algae can also grow there.
Toxic pond algae usually stinks, but animals may still be attracted to the smell and the taste of the blooms, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency.
How will my dog act if exposed to the blooms? If your dog is exposed to the blooms, time is of the essence. These blooms can cause lethargy, diarrhea, vomiting, staggering, drooling and seizures. Exposure to high levels of cyanotoxins can lead to liver failure or death. If you THINK your dog was exposed, immediately take him/her to the vet and tell them about the water. The water can be tested to see if the toxins and bacteria exists.
How do I know if the blooms exists in water near me?
Of course, if you can see the algae on the water, immediately leave the area and report it to the proper authorities. Keep your dog on a lease until you know the water is safe to swim in. If your dog has already gotten in the water and you see the algae, rinse your dog immediately with fresh, clean water. Take your dog to the vet until the water can be tested to see if the algae really exists. If you have touched your dog, go and wash with soap and water.
Can the algae harm me? Yes, if enough of the cyanotoxins are consumed. In humans, the algae can cause rashes, stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. These toxins are not just present in water, but they also can appear in some foods.
“Ultimately, the entire food web is impacted because these toxins are produced. As a result, food contaminated with HABs have caused a variety of illnesses, and, in the most severe cases, lead to paralysis and respiratory failure, according the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
https://www.theindychannel.com/news/national/what-to-know-about-the-toxic-algae-that-can-kill-dogs
https://www.ewg.org/news-and-analysis/2018/09/many-hazards-toxic-algae-outbreaks
The main thing to remember is: Just be aware!! If you are going to let your dog go swimming in a lake or pond, check with authorities FIRST to see if there have been any warnings about algae. BE SAFE… AND KEEP YOUR DOGS SAFE!!!
Until next time,
Hugs and Pug Kisses,
Candy
An interactive map from the Environmental Working Group shows all the algal blooms that have cropped up in the country since 2010.Some algae blooms release cyanotoxins that can harm human and animal health; other outbreaks are not toxic.
