A dog has collapsed and died due to suspected algae poisoning following reports of possible blue-green algae in Penmaenmawr, Conwy. Natural Resources Wales received reports of the algae in rock pools around Penmaen Park, near Penmaenmawr Sailing Club.
NRW said in a statement: "We’ve received a report of possible blue-green algae in rock pools around Penmaen Park near to Penmaenmawr sail club. Sadly, a dog has collapsed and died due to suspected algae poisoning. If you’re in the area, please keep yourselves and pets away from the water."
According to NRW, blue-green algae naturally occurs in inland waters, estuaries and the sea. Blooms can form when their numbers become excessive.
Bloom and scum-forming blue-green algae can produce toxins. Toxin-producing blooms are called Harmful Algal Blooms. These toxins can kill wild animals, farm livestock and domestic pets. In humans, they can cause rashes after skin contact and illnesses if swallowed. Not all blue-green algae blooms and scums are toxic, but you can’t tell just by looking at them, so it’s best to assume they are.
Get more Welsh news by subscribing to our daily newsletters here.
READ NEXT:
Woman with tiny cabin in her garden hit with huge bills as it's deemed 'second home'
'Wearing a summer dress saved my life – now I want to help save others'
Michael Bublé serenaded in Cardiff Bay restaurant before joining in
The best pictures as streets across Wales shut and communities come together for coronation parties
