West Dunbartonshire dog owners have been warned to keep their dogs on leashes around rivers and ponds due to deadly blue-green algae risks.
The British Veterinary Association has issued its annual warning to pet owners to take extra precautions when walking dogs around freshwater bodies, as warm weather conditions spark concerns about an increased risk of toxic blue-green algae growth over the coming months.
Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, are a group of bacteria that can contain dangerous toxins which can be harmful and potentially fatal to pets, livestock and birds if ingested even in small quantities. Dogs can swallow it by drinking water from an affected lake, river or pond or while licking their fur after going for a swim.
Dogs can come into contact with the bacteria even if they don’t go into the water for a paddle as toxic blooms are often blown to the edges of water bodies.
British Veterinary Association President Justine Shotton said: “It is also important to be aware of the symptoms of exposure. These commonly include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, disorientation, trouble breathing, seizures, and blood in faeces. They can appear within a few minutes or hours of exposure, depending on the type of toxin ingested, and can cause liver damage and ultimately be rapidly fatal if left untreated.
“There is currently no known antidote for the toxins, so dog owners should seek prompt veterinary treatment to tackle their effects .”
The BVA has issued tips for dog owners:
- Look out for any warning signs put up by the responsible national environment agency or local authority near water bodies.
- Keep pets on a lead and by your side around water bodies known or suspected to have a blue-green algal bloom – don’t let pets swim in it or drink from it.
- If your dog has been swimming outside, wash its coat thoroughly with clean water afterwards.
- Seek emergency veterinary treatment if you’re concerned your pet may have ingested toxic algae.
- Report sightings of suspected blue-green algae with a photograph via the Bloomin’ Algae app. You can also set up notifications for confirmed sightings in your area.
