Blue-Green Algae

Here comes the sun… and the blue-green algae!

Blue-green algae is a naturally occurring bacteria found mostly in stagnant waters such as lakes, ponds, canals, rivers and reservoirs. Although not all blue-green algae are harmful, some can produce TOXIC chemicals which can lead to acute damage to your dog’s liver. Because the algae blooms from later spring to early autumn, they are particularly a health risk during warm summer months.

Although there is no reverse cure following ingestion of the toxic algae, aggressive symptomatic treatment can be offered but the prognosis is often grave. If you believe your dog has ingested blue-green algae, or if they begin showing clinical signs of algae toxicity following contact with water you should rinse them immediately in clean, fresh water and contact your nearest vet.

Clinical signs of ingestion may include:

• Vomiting and diarrhoea
• Disorientation
• Breathing difficulty
• Excessive salivation
• Weakness or collapse
• Tremors
• Seizures

STAY SAFE this summer by following our top tips:

• Be extra vigilant for blue-green algae warning signs often shown around lakes and ponds.
• Monitor social media pages of local country parks for algae warnings.

• Always rinse your dog thoroughly after they have been swimming as the algae can lay in their fur and be ingested during licking.

• Take extreme caution allowing your dog to drink from stagnant water sources including garden ponds, garden pots & bird baths.
• Carry your own source of fresh water and bowl.

© The Dog First Aid Co. 2021