This year, some dogs have experienced serious health issues and fatalities due to ingesting harmful algae in lakes and ponds. Understanding serious hazards for your dog is an important part of providing proper pet care. Here’s what you need to know about this scare so you can protect your dog and seek out the necessary care if it’s needed.

What Are Algae Blooms?

Blue-green algae is a harmful type of algal bloom that can exist in freshwater lakes and other inland bodies of water. They tend to be more common in the summer because the blooms thrive in warmer conditions. This type of algae looks like a thin layer of green scum over the top of the water. It’s harmful to humans as well, but dogs tend to show more symptoms because they may ingest it while swimming. 

What Do They Do to Dogs?

Some of the early signs of algae poisoning include excessive panting or drooling, seizures, vomiting, and diarrhea. Ultimately, it can lead to liver failure, respiratory failure, and death, so it’s essential to take your dog to a vet clinic if you notice any of those early symptoms, especially if your dog has recently been swimming in a lake or pond.

What Precautions Should Pet Owners Take?

To prevent this issue in the first place, you might simply keep your dogs away from lakes and other bodies of water where it might be present. If that’s not an option, look out for any green scum on the top of the water and keep your dog away from those areas. If they are exposed, wash them off right away, making sure to cover yourself, so you’re not also exposed to it.

If you need a veterinarian to provide precautionary or emergency pet care, rely on the professionals at Covedale Pet Hospital in Cincinnati, OH. The vet clinic has been treating animals throughout the area for more than 25 years and provides annual pet physicals, surgery, and even laser treatments. Team members receive ongoing training to ensure that they always offer the best possible care to every animal. Visit the clinic’s website for a full list of pet care services. To schedule an appointment, call (513) 251-4666.