Vets are issuing an urgent warning to dog owners as cases of blue-green algae poisoning surge across the UK ahead of summer. While the bacteria can cause skin irritation in humans, it can be fatal to dogs if ingested, sometimes within a short time.
Sean McCormack, Head Vet at Tails.com, explained that blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, is often invisible to the naked eye but can form blooms that turn water a pea-green soup colour. Unlike harmless green algae, which is stringy and easily picked up, blue-green algae produces toxins that can stop a dog's liver from functioning properly.
McCormack advised owners to stay vigilant near open water and assume any suspicious green substance is blue-green algae. He suggested taking dogs to dog-friendly pools or lidos as a safer alternative for swimming.
If a dog has ingested contaminated water, owners should contact a vet immediately as there is no antidote. Treatment may include inducing vomiting or intensive care for severe cases. Symptoms in dogs include vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, and collapse, and can lead to fatal liver failure.
McCormack emphasised the importance of prompt treatment to reduce long-term health risks. Owners are urged to keep dogs away from any water that may be contaminated.
