Dog Health & Care

Beware Blue-Green Algae Poisoning

Written by: Jackie Brown

Toxic blue-green algae blooms have been identified in all 50 states. Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) is found in stagnant freshwater sources like ponds and lakes during warm weather.

The Michelson Found Animals Foundation shares the following tips for keeping your dog safe:

Inspect water before allowing your dog to swim. Bluegreen algae looks like green slime or paint on the surface of the water.
Do not allow your dog to drink stagnant water.
If your dog swims in stagnant water, immediately rinse him off with clean, fresh water.
Blue-green algae poisoning can be fatal. Seek immediate veterinary care if you notice the following symptoms after exposure to stagnant water: panting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, seizures, disorientation, vomiting or difficulty breathing.

About the Author

Jackie Brown

Pet expert Jackie Brown has spent 20 years following her passion for animals as a writer and editor in the pet publishing industry. She is contributing writer for National Geographic’s Complete Guide to Pet Health, Behavior, and Happiness: The Veterinarian's Approach to At-Home Animal Care (April 2019) and author of the book It’s Raining Cats and Dogs: Making Sense of Animal Phrases (Lumina Press, 2006). Jackie is a regular contributor to pet and veterinary industry media and is the former editor of numerous pet magazines, including Dog World, Natural Dog, Puppies 101, Kittens 101 and the Popular Cats Series. Prior to starting her career in publishing, Jackie spent eight years working in veterinary hospitals where she assisted veterinarians as they treated dogs, cats, rabbits, pocket pets, reptiles, birds and one memorable lion cub. She lives in Southern California with her husband, two sons and miniature poodle Jäger. Reach her at jackiebrownwriter.wordpress.com.