A concerning hidden danger has emerged in local lakes and ponds. Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, is a type of bacteria that thrives in warm water. It emits a toxin, which is dangerous—and potentially deadly—to both people and pets. This is something that all pet owners should be aware of, but it’s particularly pertinent to those who take their pups swimming in freshwater. Read on as a local Plano, TX vet offers some insight as to this dangerous toxin.
What Exactly Is Blue-Green Algae?
This type of algae is particularly dangerous, because it produces a specific type of toxin. Blooms can occur anytime the average water temperature goes over 75, which is when many bodies of water are rich with nutrients. That means that the peak of the summer months—particularly around and just after the dog days of summer—are especially dangerous. It is most often found in shallower lakes and ponds. Blooms can grow very quickly when conditions are ripe.
Just How Dangerous Is Blue-Green Algae?
Blue-green algae is extremely dangerous to both people and pets. Exposure may lead to diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes, eye and throat irritation, and respiratory distress. It can also lead to serious neurological problems and/or liver failure. Exposure to or ingestion of large amounts of the algae can be fatal. There is no antidote, unfortunately.
Dogs and livestock are particularly at risk, simply because they just don’t know any better than to drink the water, and can ingest quite a bit before you can stop them.
Will It Be Safe To Swim In Blue-Green Algae?
Absolutely not. Part of the danger here is that sometimes blooms can be present but undetectable. Even if a lake or pond looks safe, do your due diligence and check local resources. Stick to places that are cleared and open for swimming.
How Can I Tell If Blue-Green Algae Is Present?
Usually, blue-green algae blooms are pretty easy to spot … and smell. Cyanobacteria is called blue-green algae for a good reason. The blooms often look like pea soup or green paint. They also often emit a stinky, swampy odor.
However, you can’t just go by looks alone. Smaller blooms may not be obvious to the naked eye.
What Are The Warning Signs Of Blue Green Algae Exposure In Dogs?
It’s always important to keep a close eye on your pet, and watch for signs that something is amiss. In this case, the things you would want to look for include panting, respiratory problems, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness/disorientation, and excessive drooling. Seizures are another warning sign. If you notice any of these red flags in your canine companion, contact your vet or an urgent care pet clinic immediately.
As mentioned above, there is no antidote. However, proper supportive care can make a huge difference. Ask your Plano, TX vet for more information.
How Is Blue-Green Algae Ingested?
Drinking contaminated water is likely the most common way dogs get sick, but it isn’t the only way. People and pets can also ingest the toxins through their skin or by breathing in water droplets or vapor. That means that you can get contaminated by going tubing, water skiing, swimming, floating, or boating.
Dogs, of course, often love to splash around. Pets can get sick by being immersed in water. They also may later lick the cyanobacteria off their fur.
How Do I Know If A Lake Is Safe For Fido?
If you smell a swamp odor, or notice that telltale green scum, then you should just presume a lake is unsafe. However, as mentioned above, you may not see the bloom. Look for posted signs: many local governments will put up notices when blooms are confirmed.
You can also check the HAB (Harmful Algae Blooms) map, which can be found here. This site provides updates on blue-green algae blooms for every state. You can find more information on Texas blooms here.
What Do I Do If My Pet Comes Into Contact With Cyanobacteria?
Your first move should be to thoroughly wash Fido. We would strongly advise contacting your vet as well. You may find yourself in a waiting game as you watch for potential signs to develop.
That said, it’s worth noting that we always advise rinsing Fido off after he’s gone swimming, regardless of whether he’s been to a pool, lake, or beach. It’s always important to get sand, salt, and/or any chemicals out of his fur and skin.
How Long Do Blue Green Algae Blooms Last?
Individual blooms only last a week or two. However, when conditions are ripe, they may immediately be replaced by another. For practical purposes, lakes may remain contaminated for weeks or even months. This usually happens between mid-to-late summer and early fall.
Will Boiling Water Get Rid Of Blue-Green Algae?
No. This is important to realize if you like going camping with Fido, and often boil water from lakes or ponds. Boiling may kill live bacteria and microorganisms, but it won’t remove the cyanobacterial toxins.
What Else Do I Need To Do To Keep Fido Safe At The Lake?
Cyanobacteria isn’t the only possible threat lurking in lakes. While swimming can be great fun for Fido, it can also be quite dangerous for him. Some dogs simply aren’t cut out for it. If your pooch is a brachycephalic pup, or has any sort of mobility issues, he’s going to be better off splashing around in a kiddie pool. Very small dogs are also unsafe in the water: they can be over their heads in just a few inches. If you aren’t sure whether swimming is suitable for your pooch or not, contact your vet.
If your canine pal doesn’t know how to swim, take time to teach him. Never just throw a pup into the water and hope for the best. Support him as he’s learning, and encourage him with praise and compliments.
That said, it’s also important to keep a close eye on Fido when he’s in the water. Never leave your dog unattended near water. You’ll not only want to take care not to take him to anywhere with blue-green algae blooms, but also to avoid bringing him anywhere with steep drops, heavy wakes, or strong currents. Red tides are also a hazard for those headed to the shore this summer.
Your canine pal should also know basic obedience commands, such as Sit, Stay, and Come. This is very important, as it can keep your pooch from approaching a dangerous area. If you’re taking your dog to a pool, immediately take time to teach him where the stairs are.
Last but not least, don’t let your dog slurp up water from lakes, ponds, or puddles. In addition to the risk of cyanobacteria, Fido could also contract parasites, such as Giardia.
Conclusion: Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, is a toxic algae that blooms in many lakes and ponds in summer. It is extremely dangerous to pets and livestock. In fact, exposure can be fatal for our canine friends. It’s important for pet owners to know what the dangers are, and how to identify and avoid blooms.
Make An Appointment At Your Plano, TX Pet Hospital
Is your canine pal due for an exam? Does Fido need to come in for wellness care, vaccines, or parasite control? Please feel free to contact us, your local Plano, TX animal clinic, anytime.
