There’s nothing better than heading outdoors with your pet during those warm summer days, and now that summer is finally here, we’re ready to get out there! But, if you’re spending time lakeside with your pet, there may be something deadly lurking closer than you think. Many pet parents are not aware of the severity of blue-green algae intoxication or how to recognize it, so our experts at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) want to make sure you have all the information you need to keep your pets safe this summer.

Blue-green algae, otherwise known as cyanobacteria, is most likely to thrive in bodies of fresh water when the weather is warm—75 degrees and over—and sunny. Warmer weather promotes the growth of cyanobacteria which, in turn, causes more algae intoxications during this time. Cyanobacteria is incredibly toxic and is known to cause poisoning in dogs, cats, livestock, wildlife, birds, fish and even humans.

Water containing toxic blue-green algae will often appear as a pea-green paint or as slime on the surface of the water. If certain wind conditions are present, the film will often concentrate along the shoreline in areas where animals may drink or swim. 

Dogs can develop poisoning when they drink from, or even swim in, contaminated water sources. If blue-green algae is ingested, it can cause severe neurologic or liver damage. 

Signs of blue-green algae toxicity includes:

• Seizures
• Panting
• Excessive drooling
• Respiratory failure
• Diarrhea
• Disorientation
• Vomiting
• Liver failure 
• Ultimately death 

If your dog begins to experience any of these symptoms, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. 

Be sure to stay alert when it comes to your pet and blue-green algae. Don’t allow your pet to drink from stagnant ponds, lakes or other bodies of water that have bluish-green scum on the surface or around the edges. 

Blue-green algae cells can also stick to your pet’s fur and be ingested when they clean themselves, so take caution before allowing your pet to jump into a body of water and be sure to rinse your pet thoroughly with fresh water after going for a swim.  

Many public health departments test fresh water frequently in areas that are known to have outbreaks and will post signs when there is a problem—vigilance is very important!