Reports of dogs facing severe health risks, and even death, after exposure to blue-green algae have circulated widely. It's crucial to recognize this potential danger and take preventive measures. Contrary to its name, blue-green algae is a misnomer; it is a cyanobacterium, a single-celled organism that can pose serious threats to dogs.
In this article for "THE WAG", we shed light on the toxicity of this organism and offers insights on how to protect your canine companion.
What to do if your dog comes in contact with blue-green algae
What to do if your dog comes in contact with blue-green algae
Call me a little overly cautious, but when it comes to lake swimming, it's wise to steer clear of those with a green-scum layer on the surface. Why? During exceptionally hot summers and fall, there's an increased risk of lakes developing a dense "bloom" of algae that hovers on the water's surface. As a toxicologist, my concern specifically revolves around blue-green algae.
What is blue-green algae?
Also known as cyanobacteria, blue-green algae is a microscopic bacteria found in freshwater ponds, lakes, streams, and brackish water ecosystems. It's important to note that not all algae types are toxic, but certain varieties, such as blue-green algae, can produce toxins like microcystins and anatoxins. These toxins pose a serious threat to various species, including humans, cattle, horses, and cats. Consequently, it's imperative to prevent your dog (or child) from swimming or consuming water potentially contaminated with blue-green algae.
Signs of blue-green algae poisoning Clinical manifestations of blue-green algae poisoning depend on the type of toxin present—microcystins or anatoxins. Signs of poisoning due to microcystin-producing blue-green algae typically include:
Malaise/lethargy
Weakness
Loss of appetite
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Black-tarry stool
Collapse
Pale or yellow gums (jaundice)
Shock
Seizures
Death
For blue-green algae producing anatoxins, symptoms may involve:
Inability to walk
Excessive salivation
Excessive tearing (eye)
Tremors
Muscle rigidity
Difficulty breathing or blue gums
Death
How can I protect my dog from blue-green algae?
While it's impossible to visually determine if the algae in a pond or lake is harmless or toxic, it's prudent to exercise caution and refrain from allowing your dog to swim in any body of water displaying visible algae on the surface. Even minimal exposures, such as 1-2 licks, can potentially lead to fatal poisoning.
I recommend thoroughly inspecting any lake before letting your dog dive in, avoiding it if there are algae blooms on the surface.
My encounter with blue-green algae The most recent case of blue-green algae poisoning I handled was particularly heartbreaking. A dog, unfamiliar with lakes, succumbed to liver failure after inadvertently drinking water from an old, empty fish tank left on the deck, which had accumulated rainwater and algae over months.
Ensure your dog always has access to fresh water to discourage them from drinking from potentially contaminated sources.
Prognosis of blue-green algae poisoning Unfortunately, the prognosis for blue-green algae poisoning is grim, and some dogs may perish before reaching a veterinarian. If you suspect your dog has been exposed to blue-green algae, seek veterinary attention immediately.
Regrettably, there is no antidote for the toxins produced by blue-green algae.
In cases of poisoning, prompt treatment significantly improves the prognosis. With blue-green algae, immediate veterinary attention is crucial. When in doubt, contact your veterinarian, emergency veterinarian, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 for life-saving care.
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