Blue Green Algae Blooms are Deadly to
Pets
By M. Kathleen Shaw, DVM
North Bennington, Vermont
Blue green algae, (known as
cyanobacteria) are microscopic plants that grow in any type water and are too
small to be seen. However, they can experience rapid growth (bloom) in nutrient
rich water in late summer or early fall and can be deadly to animals.
When the algae blooms, the water
appears cloudy or like foam, scum, or even matts on the surface of ponds or
lakes. Some liken them to the appearance of pea soup. Since the blooms
float, they are easily driven towards shore, making them more accessible to
livestock and pets. The poisons produced by some cyanobacteria are among
the most potent natural poisons known. There are no known antidotes. Although
most blue green algae blooms don't produce toxins, it is impossible to
determine without testing.
Dogs affected by these poisons may
exhibit neurological signs such as weakness, stumbling, difficulty breathing,
or seizures 15-20 minutes after exposure. Other signs include severe vomiting
and diarrhea, jaundice, pale mucous membranes, blood in the stool, and
abdominal pain hours or days later. Livestock drinking from water with algal
blooms are often found dead near the source.
Sadly, the prognosis for a pet
surviving a toxic exposure to blue green algae is very poor once clinical signs
have occurred, so prevention is essential. Don't let pets drink from or swim in
ponds or lakes that are scummy. If you suspect you or your pets may be
affected, rinse with fresh water as soon as possible (don't let your pet lick
themself) and seek immediate veterinary assistance.
For more information and up to date
tracking of blue green algae blooms in Vermont waters, visit the Vermont State
Department of Health’s website at: http://healthvermont.gov/enviro/bg_algae/weekly_status.aspx
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The Vermont Veterinary Medical Association (VVMA), founded in 1898, is a professional organization of 340 veterinarians dedicated to compassionate animal care and quality medicine. For more information, visit www.vtvets.org or call (802) 878-6888.
