Cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, is a form of bacteria that flourishes in warm water. It emits a poison that is harmful—and sometimes fatal—to both humans and animals. This is something all pet owners should be aware of, but it’s especially important for those who take their pups swimming in lakes and ponds. A local Sale Creek, TN veterinarian offers some insight on this hidden danger in this article.
What Is Cyanobacteria, Or Blue-Green Algae?
Resembling paint or pea soup, this variety of algae is especially harmful because it produces a deadly toxin. Blooms can occur if the average water temperature exceeds 75 degrees Fahrenheit, which is when many bodies of water are nutrient-dense. That means that the peak of the summer months, particularly during and immediately following the dog days of summer, are especially perilous. It is most commonly seen in shallow lakes and ponds. When the conditions are ideal, blooms can expand rapidly.
How Dangerous is Blue-Green Algae?
Blue-green algae is extremely toxic to humans and pets. Exposure may cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes, eye and throat irritation, and respiratory discomfort. It may also result in major brain issues and/or liver failure. Large concentrations of algae can be lethal if exposed or ingested. Unfortunately, no antidote exists.
Dogs and animals are particularly vulnerable because they don’t know any better than to drink the water and can consume a large amount before you can stop them.
How Long Do Cyanobacterial Blooms Last?
Individual ones only survive for a week or two. However, when the conditions are right, they can be quickly replaced by another. For practical reasons, lakes might remain poisoned for weeks or months, especially between mid-to-late summer and early autumn, when water temps are highest.
Will Boiling Water Get Rid Of Blue-Green Algae?
No. This is important to understand if you enjoy camping with Fido and frequently boil water from lakes or ponds for cooking or drinking. Boiling may destroy live bacteria and microorganisms, but it does not eliminate cyanobacterial toxins.
Can Fido Swim In Blue-Green Algae?
Absolutely not. Part of the problem here is that blooms may be present but undetectable. Even if a lake or pond appears to be safe, conduct your own research and consult with local resources. Stick to areas that have been cleared for swimming.
How Do I Know If Blue-Green Algae Are Present?
Blue-green algal blooms are typically easy to identify and smell. Cyanobacteria is known as blue-green algae for a good reason. The blossoms frequently resemble pea soup or green paint. They also frequently produce a smelly, marshy stench.
However, you cannot judge someone solely on their appearance. Smaller blooms may not be visible to the naked eye.
What Are the Warning Signs of Exposure in Dogs?
It is always vital to keep a close eye on your pet and look for indicators that something is wrong. When it comes to cyanobacteria, you’ll want to watch for panting, respiratory issues, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness/disorientation, and excessive drooling. Seizures are another warning sign. If you observe any of these warning signs in your canine companion, contact your veterinarian or an urgent care pet facility immediately.
As previously stated, there is no antidote. However, appropriate supportive care can make a significant difference. Contact your veterinarian for further information.
How is Blue-Green Algae Making People Sick?
Drinking contaminated water is perhaps the most common way dogs get sick, but it isn’t the only one. Toxins can also be ingested by humans and pets through the skin or by inhaling water droplets or mist. That implies you can get polluted while tubing, water skiing, swimming, floating, or boating.
Pets can become ill after being immersed in water. Even wading is dangerous: Fido may later lick the cyanobacteria off his fur.
How Do I Know If a Lake Is Safe for Fido?
If you smell a swampy odor or see the telltale green scum, you should assume the lake is dangerous. However, as previously stated, you may not see the bloom. Look for public signs: many local governments will publish notices once blooms are confirmed.
You can also refer to the HAB (Harmful Algae Blooms) map, which can be found here. This website gives updates on blue-green algae blooms in all states.
What Should I Do If My Pet Comes into Contact with Cyanobacteria?
The first step should be to thoroughly wash Fido and call your veterinarian. You may find yourself in a waiting game as you look for potential symptoms to emerge, but don’t delay:
(Note: regardless of whether Fido swims in a pool, lake, or beach, we always recommend cleaning him off afterward, to help remove sand, salt, and/or chemicals from his fur and skin.)
What Else Should I Do to Keep Fido Safe at the Lake?
Cyanobacteria is not the only potential threat to our canine pals when it comes to lakes. Swimming can be a lot of fun for Fido, but it can also be very dangerous.
Here are some safety tips:
Give Your Pup Swim Lessons: If your dog doesn’t know how to swim, take the time to teach him. Never throw a puppy into the water and hope for the best. Encourage him as he learns by offering praise and comments.
Supervise Your Pet: However, it’s also critical to keep a watchful eye on Fido while he’s in the water. Never leave your furry friend unattended near the water. You should not only avoid taking him anywhere with blue-green algae blooms, but also any places with steep drops, large wakes, or strong currents. Red tides are also a risk for anybody going to the beach this summer.
Make Sure It’s Right For Fido: Some dogs aren’t made out for the water. If your canine pal is brachycephalic or has movement limitations, he will do better splashing around in a kiddie pool. Very small dogs are also dangerous in the water because they can get above their heads in just a few inches. If you’re unsure whether swimming is appropriate for your furry friend, see your Sale Creek, TN veterinarian.
Training And Petiquette: Your dog should also understand basic obedience instructions like Sit, Stay, and Come. This is critical because it prevents your canine pal from accessing a potentially unsafe place. If you’re taking your dog to the pool, take the time to show him where the stairs are.
Bring Water Along: Finally, do not allow your dog to drink water from lakes, ponds, or puddles. In addition to the risk of cyanobacteria, Your furry friend may develop parasites like Giardia. Always bring water for both yourself and your pet to drink.
Conclusion: Blue-green algae, often known as cyanobacteria, are harmful algae that bloom in many lakes and ponds during the summer. It is particularly harmful for pets and animals. In fact, exposure can be lethal to our canine companions. Pet owners must be aware of the dangers and understand how to spot and avoid blooms.
Schedule An Appointment At Your Sale Creek, TN Pet Hospital
Is your canine companion due for a checkup? Is Fido required to come in for wellness care, vaccinations, or parasite control? Please feel free to contact us, your local Sale Creek, TN animal clinic, at any time.
