In North Florida and South Georgia, we’re lucky to have access to rivers, lakes, and ponds for our pets to romp and play in the water. Unfortunately, several dogs have died recently after swimming in water contaminated with blue-green algae. This algae can produce cyanotoxins, and is found in non-flowing fresh, salt or brackish water during hot seasons. It can also grow in backyard pools and decorative ponds that are not routinely cleaned. The bacteria is toxic when consumed in high concentrations, which oftentimes happens to dogs as they play in the water. The result is most often fatal, and vets have found that symptoms can appear anywhere from 15 minutes to several days after ingestion.
How Many Dogs Have Been Affected?
It’s hard to say. “We don’t know how many dogs have died from harmful algal blooms this year, said Michael San Filippo, a spokesman for the American Veterinary Medical Association. “There have been several cases reported in the past month, but these types of deaths aren’t reportable, so there’s no reliable statistics available.”.
Is there Blue-Green Algae in Jacksonville?
The Florida Department of Health in Duval County reminds individuals to avoid exposure to algal blooms in the St. John’s River and other water bodies in Florida. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection hosts a web page with a map outlining the location of current blue-green algae blooms: https://floridadep.gov/algalbloom
How do Dogs Ingest Blue-Green Algae?
Dogs can ingest the toxins a number of ways. Oftentimes, they ingest water as they run and play in the water. They may fetch a ball, and swim with their mouth open. Or they may playfully snap at floating algae. Or they may lap up the water when thirsty. They could become ill after licking their wet fur after getting out of the water. The algae can also dry up into crusts onshore, where dogs can nibble on them.
Can Humans Be Harmed by Blue-Green Algae?
Blue-Green Algae can make people sick too, however people are usually turned off by the sight and odor and choose not to ingest the water. Dogs are more susceptible because they tend to ingest the algae during play or by licking their fur.
What Causes Blue-Green Algae?
The blooms tend to thrive in high temperatures and in stagnant water. It can be caused by heavy rains that carry fertilizer runoff and sewage into waterways. It thrives in warm, calm, shallow, nutrient-rich bodies of water. Most blue-green algae do not produce harmful chemicals; however, some types make the cyanotoxins. Over time, these toxins are diluted and eventually break down and disappear. It’s important not to come into contact with water with this toxin. This issue has led to swimming bans in bodies of water across the country.
Tips to Avoid Blue-Green Algae Poisoning for your Pet
Blue-Green Algae looks like grains of floating green sand or scum. It can lurk under the surface of the water, and even attach to plants. And wind can blow the algae from one area into another, which was not previously contaminated. The EPA recommends keeping your dog away from slimy water, or water that looks like it has foam or scum on its surface. They also recommend avoiding water if it smells bad, or if it has an odd color, like blue, bright green, brown or red.
If your pet is prone to jumping water, be sure to keep him on a leash during warm weather conditions. Also, don’t let your dog drink out of ponds and lakes.
Signs/Symptoms your Dog May Have Ingested Blue-Green Algae
Animals that ingest these toxins can present with anything from skin rashes to neurological problems. There are usually two different scenarios under which animals fall ill following exposure. Some tend to develop signs very quickly, usually within 15 minutes of ingestion. These animals present with neurological signs such as staggering, drooling and seizures. These symptoms usually result in rapid death. Other animals present with liver failure, and symptoms might not become apparent immediately. The pet may go home and then start to show signs like vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite.
What Should I Do If I Think my Dog has been Exposed to Blue-Green Algae?
If you feel that your pet may have been in contact with the toxin, be sure to rinse them with freshwater and immediately take them to your veterinarian. Intervention before symptoms arise can be lifesaving.
Unfortunately, there is no specific antidote for this toxin. Therefore, vets are only able to treat symptoms. Your vet may be able to flush out the toxins before your dog becomes completely affected if symptoms are recognized early.
Jacksonville Community Pet Clinics have been providing affordable, high-quality veterinary care to the Jacksonville community since 2009. We have two locations, one in Jacksonville Beach, one in West Jacksonville. We also operate from a mobile clinic, which brings free brief exams, low cost pet shots and access to affordable prescription medications to Jacksonville and the surrounding five county area.
