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“The onset is extremely quick, between 15 and 20 minutes,” says Dr Carrie Oakes. Knowing what lakes are affected with Blue-green algae before letting your dog go into a lake is critical.
The algae produces deadly toxins to dogs who swim in or ingest the water.
Dr Oakes, a veterinarian at Goodheart Cherry Creek, has tips to help you ensure your dog stays safe while in nature this summer.
Cat owners can rejoice! This isn’t an issue for you since most cats aren’t drawn to playing in lakes or ponds. 😊
What is Blue-Green Algae?
Blue-green algae is a toxic-to-dogs bloom in Colorado lakes and rivers. It’s also toxic for humans. The algae are most prevalent in our hot summer months: from June until September.
“As the name implies,” says Dr Oakes, “most of the time it is blue or green….you’ll see clumps scattered on the lake or pond. But it doesn’t always have a color.”
Luckily, contact with the algae doesn’t make your dog contagious. It also can’t be passed from pet to pet or pet to person.
How can you protect your dog from blue-green algae?
Keep your dog safe by avoiding areas with algae blooms. The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment monitors our waterways year-round. We also link to this site on our website’s local resources page.
Check this report to decide whether or not you’ll bring your dog boating, kayaking, or paddle boarding.
What should you do if your dog touches or drinks blue-green algae?
If your dog swam in affected water, symptoms include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Foaming at the mouth
- Loss of appetite
- Stumbling
- Muscle twitches that increase in frequency
- Difficulty breathing
Please call us if you think your dog swam in a lake with blue-green algae.
How do veterinarians treat blue-green algae exposure?
If your dog has symptoms of poisoning, we’ll conduct a thorough exam and may recommend additional diagnostics like lab work and imaging. Treatment is aimed at relieving your pup’s discomfort and pain. It’s also focused on letting the toxin pass through their body safely.
In serious cases, we’ll consult a toxicologist and/or refer you to a 24-hour care facility.
Rapid diagnosis and supportive care are the keys to getting your dog back to their happiest and healthiest selves. This lets the poison pass through the patient’s body quickly and with as little suffering as possible.
Proceed with caution
Stay cautious around all algae. Since it’s difficult to identify what type of algae you’re seeing, we recommend treating all algae as though it is toxic.
Check out our other blog about summer safety on local rivers and lakes. And these two write-ups filled with helpful tips about a common pantry toxin and next steps if your pet eats poison.
Goodheart is here to help your dog enjoy a safe and happy summer. If you’re worried, please call us or book a visit through our online appointment tool.