Tag: #BlueGreenAlgae

Young Dog Dies of Blue Algae Poisoning in River Yeo

Just next door in Somerset, this beautiful dog, Fern sadly lost her young life last night due to Blue Algae poisoning from the river Yeo. Fern was swimming in the weir at Mudford, Yeovil.

Naturally, the family are devastated. They have shared her photograph and want to highlight the incident and remind all dog owners to please “be aware that this awful deadly algae can kill your much loved family pet within minutes.  Please tell anyone who may be walking their dogs along this river“.

Broadwindsor.org published a post at the beginning of August 2020 highlighting the dangers and symptoms of Blue Algae Poisoning. Read the full article HERE.

If you become aware of a location with Blue Green Algae – please report it to the Environment Agency on 0800 80 70 60.
They will be able to test the water and put a sign up to warn other people if blue-green algae is found. It’s better to be safe than sorry so if you’re worried, please report it.

#Broadwindsor,#BlueGreenAlgae,#BritishVeterinaryAssociation,#Dogs,#RiverYeo,#EnvironmentAgency,#BeKind,#StaySafe

Dog Owners: Be Aware of Blue Green Algae Poisoning

Blue Green Algae (or ‘cyanobacteria’), is a type of bacteria, most commonly found in stagnant water. It is dangerous and deadly to dogs!  This is a seasonal problem but so dangerous that dog owners need reminding!
It’s called ‘algae’ because it often forms a green scum on the surface of water. Not all types of blue green algae are dangerous, but some produce toxins that spread throughout the water and if swallowed, can cause organ damage and potentially death.

Your dog is at risk of blue green algae poisoning if they swim in, or drink contaminated water. Blue green algae can be difficult to spot and its toxins can’t be seen by the naked eye. However, the bacteria does produce a potent odour has been compared to rotting vegetables – so it’s very important to know what to look out for before allowing your dog to swim.

This is alarming but the British Veterinary Association has stated that dogs and other pets exposed to the algae could experience vomiting, diarrhoea, disorientation and seizures, potentially leading to liver damage and death.

Symptoms, which usually arise anywhere from 15 minutes to several days after exposure may include:

  • Diarrhea or vomiting
  • Drooling
  • Neurologic signs such as:
  • Weakness
  • Disorientation/confusion
  • Collapse/unconsciousness
  • Seizures
  • Breathing difficulties

If any of these signs occur, contact your vet immediately. If caught early enough, your vet may be able to flush out the toxins before your dog becomes completely affected.

Lunar @ HurseyIf you become aware of a location with Blue Green Algae – please report it to the Environment Agency on 0800 80 70 60. They will be able to test the water and put a sign up to warn other people if blue-green algae is found. It’s better to be safe than sorry so if you’re worried, report it.

#Broadwindsor #BlueGreenAlgae #BritishVeterinaryAssociation #Dogs #Summer #EnvironmentAgency #StaySafe

 

Photo Credit: Morgan Fleming