Warning to dog owners as blue-green algae spotted across the UK- signs to look out for
With the recent heat wave your pooch may want little better than to cool off by taking a dip in a lake, however dog owners are being warned to stay alert about blue-green algae a form of bacteria formed on ponds, lakes, and rivers which can have fatal consequences for your pooch.
With this in mind, Emma Scales-Theobald Canine Behaviourist and partner of Canine Cottages, has urged that dog owners familiarise themselves with what blue-green algae may look like so they can keep their dogs out of the way of water suspected to be contaminated.
Emma has also shared some top tips on symptoms to look out for below.
Educate yourself on blue green algae
Familiarise yourself with what blue-green algae looks like so you can keep your dog out of and away from water you think might be contaminated.
It looks like a layer of green/green-brown/turquoise on the surface of the water and foam around lake and pond edges. It can also have a strong smell, similar to rotting vegetables, and you may notice dead fish in the area.
Regularly check for reports or confirmed cases
Blue-green algae most commonly occurs during summer and early autumn, when the weather is warm, sunny and has low rainfall, particularly when the water temperature rises above 17°C. Under the right conditions, blue-green algae can develop anywhere in the UK. Therefore, over summer, it’s worth regularly checking with the Environment Agency and local councils if there have been any confirmed reports of it being in the areas you plan to visit.
Educate yourself on the symptoms to look out for
Symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning typically include:
Symptoms can develop within minutes or hours after exposure. Left untreated, it can be fatal and treated dogs who survive will likely have long-term health issues, such as liver damage. It’s therefore important to take the symptoms seriously and seek veterinary assistance straight away.
Look for any signposts near bodies of water alerting you to contaminated water in the area.
Keep your dog away from confirmed/possible contaminated water. Don’t let your dog drink from or swim in water with suspected or confirmed blue-green algae.
Always rinse your dog thoroughly after they have been in ponds, lakes and rivers over the summer months, just in case.
When on holiday with your dog, have the contact details of vets in the area handy, so if you think your dog has ingested any blue-green algae, you’re able to seek immediate veterinary help.
If you suspect your dog is experiencing blue-green algae poisoning while you’re away on holiday, search online for the nearest veterinary practice. Call ahead explaining the symptoms and ask to book an emergency appointment. Try to provide the veterinarian with as much information as you can about your dog’s possible exposure to blue-green algae, including the location, duration of exposure, and the symptoms.
Commenting on the safety advice, and on teaming up with Dr. Emma Sarah Pring, Digital PR Manager of Canine Cottages said, “When on a staycation break or taking a day out with your dog, in the summer many breeds suddenly want to become water babies. However, there are hazards to be aware, as well as general water safety. It’s always important when travelling to have the number of a vet on hand in case any emergency calls do need to be made.”
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