We all know that dogs love to explore new places when you’re on holiday – and a nice cool body of water is irresistible for most pooches. Whether they’re cannonballing into lakes or doggy-paddling downriver, most dogs love a good splash!
And naturally, when you take your dog out for a nice long holiday walk, you’re probably thinking about slobbery tennis balls and making sure that you’ve got enough poo bags.
But here at Canine Cottages, we know it’s important to consider possible dangers when you’re exploring new places on holiday. And if you’re off on a walk while on holiday to a lake, river or anywhere near water, then you need to know about the potential dangers of blue-green algae poisoning.
As part of our Canine Care Hub, we’re working with Dr Emma Scales-Theobald, PhD, also known as Dr Emma The Dogtor (@emmathedogtor), who is full of expert knowledge and helpful tips about doggy care. She’s here to explain exactly what blue-green algae is, and why it’s so dangerous for dogs whether you’re on holiday or at home.
Skip to:
What is blue-green algae?
Emma explains, “Blue-green algae is actually a type of bacteria (also known as cyanobacteria). But it can look like algae when it’s in slow or non-flowing fresh water, like ponds, lakes and rivers. An algal ‘bloom’ can occur due to hot weather causing sudden rapid growth.”
Certain species of algae can produce toxins that pose serious health risks to humans and animals. However, Emma points out, “You’re not able to tell if it’s a harmful version just from its appearance, so it’s best to always act with caution if you spot algae.”
What does blue-green algae look like?
Blue-green algae (true to its name) looks like a layer of green, green-brown, or turquoise colour on the surface of water and foam around lake and pond edges. Emma advises that “it can also have a strong smell, similar to rotting vegetables, and you may notice dead fish in the area.”
Where is blue-green algae found?
The most likely growth spot for blue-green algae is still, shallow and warm water. Emma says that “blue-green algae can be found in lakes, ponds, rivers, canals and reservoirs, as well as estuaries and the sea. But it’s especially likely to be found in waterways, especially by agricultural fields due to agricultural runoff, which provides it with extra nutrients.”
So if you often walk near farms, fields or industrial farming areas, be on the lookout – and if in doubt, keep your dog out of the water.
Why is blue-green algae dangerous for dogs?
The cyanobacteria in blue-green algae produces toxins known as cyanotoxins, which can be harmful when ingested by dogs, even in small quantities, or when in contact with skin. Emma explains that “if dogs swallow contaminated water or just lick their fur after being in contaminated water, they can become very unwell.”
What are the signs of blue-green algae poisoning?
Symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning in dogs typically include:
- Excessive drooling
- Lack of appetite
- Disorientation/confusion
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Difficulty breathing
- Blood in stool
- Unconsciousness
- Sudden onset of seizures
Emma says, “Symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning in dogs can develop within minutes or hours after exposure. Left untreated, it can be fatal and treated dogs who survive will likely have long-term health issues, such as liver damage. It’s therefore important to take the symptoms seriously and seek veterinary assistance straight away.”
What treatment is there for blue-green algae poisoning?
Currently, there isn’t an antidote for the toxins in blue-green algae, which is why it’s essential to seek veterinary treatment immediately if you spot any signs of blue-green algae poisoning in your dog.
If your dog is seen quickly, a veterinarian can attempt to flush the toxins out by making your dog sick or giving activated charcoal to absorb the toxins. Your dog will likely need intensive care with oxygen and a drip.
What should you do if your dog falls ill with blue-green algae poisoning on holiday?
If you suspect your dog is experiencing blue-green algae poisoning while you’re away on holiday, search online for the nearest veterinary practice. Call ahead explaining the symptoms and ask to book an emergency appointment.
Try to provide the veterinarian with as much information as you can about your dog's possible exposure to blue-green algae, including the location, duration of exposure and the symptoms.
Top tips for keeping your dog safe from blue-green algae:
- Familiarise yourself with what blue-green algae looks like so you can keep your dog out of and away from water you think might be contaminated
- Regularly check reports from the Environment Agency and your local council for any confirmed cases where you’re visiting
- Look for any signposts near bodies of water alerting you to contaminated water in the area
- Keep your dog away from confirmed or possibly contaminated water. Don’t let your dog drink from or swim in water with suspected or confirmed blue-green algae
- Always rinse your dog thoroughly after they have been in ponds, lakes and rivers over the summer months, just in case
- When on holiday with your dog, have the contact details of vets in the area handy, so if you think your dog has ingested any blue-green algae, you’re able to seek immediate veterinary help
When should you be looking out for blue-green algae?
We asked Emma about when dog owners need to be most wary of blue-green algae.
She explains, “Blue-green algae most commonly occurs during summer and early autumn, when the weather is warm, sunny and has low rainfall, particularly when the water temperature rises above 17°C.”
But, of course, now you’re aware of the dangers, you should be looking out for it whenever you’re planning on walking near water. Emma agrees: “Under the right conditions, blue-green algae can develop anywhere in the UK. Therefore, over summer, it’s worth regularly checking with the Environment Agency and local councils if there have been any confirmed reports of it being in the areas you plan to visit.”
Of course, as long as you’re being careful and watchful, there’s nothing wrong with your pooch going for a paddle – but if in doubt, it’s safest to keep them out.
Holidays for furry water babies
With Emma’s advice, your four-legged friends should be fine splashing around to their heart’s content. And if your dog loves going for a dip, then check out our dog-friendly cottages near rivers for a relaxing holiday with all of the family.
And for more canine-approved suggestions, check out our dog guides for some inspiration for things to do and see.
Emma Scales-Theobald PhD MSc
A canine behaviour and nutrition consultant who provides regular expert advice to Canine Cottages on the subjects of canine health and behaviour. She holds a PhD in Veterinary Medicine and Science from the University of Surrey, as well as an MSc in Animal Behaviour from the University of Exeter.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.