- Supplies To Carry With You (Shopping List) Hydrogen peroxide. Buy 3% hydrogen peroxide at any pharmacy. Activated charcoal. UAA Universal Antidote Gel, available at Amazon and veterinary suppliers.
- Remedies To Help With Blue-Green Algae Poisoning. Note: Follow these recommendations if you see any rapid onset symptoms when your dog’s been in the water – even if you didn’t ...
- If your dog has no symptoms but you think he might’ve drunk some water …. Immediately give a dose of activated charcoal. ...
- If you know your dog has swallowed some water that you suspect is toxic …. ...
- Once You’re At The Vet. Let your vet take over and do what’s necessary to save your dog. ...
How to spot toxic algae that can harm your dog?
What Causes Blue-Green Algae?
- Nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen
- Stable, slow-moving, or stagnant water
- Hot temperatures
- Intermittent exposure to high light intensity
How quickly does toxic algae affect dogs?
Tips to Avoid Blue-Green Algae Poisoning:
- Keep your dog leashed around bodies of water, especially if the water appears dirty, foamy, or has mats on the surface of the water.
- Don’t let your dog drink out of ponds and lakes
- Harmful algae blooms, which can be blue, vibrant green, brown or red, are sometimes mistaken for paint floating on the water. ...
What are the health effects of blue green algae?
Potential health effects to such exposure could include:
- Irritation of the skin, nose, eyes and respiratory tract.
- Gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea upon ingestion.
- Liver or nervous system effects, if relatively large amounts of the algae are ingested.
Is blue green algae toxic to dogs?
Some types of blue green algae release toxins (such as microcystins and anatoxins) into the water. These toxins are not only highly poisonous to dogs when swallowed but are also dangerous for cats, horses, birds, cows and humans.
What do I do if my dog drank blue-green algae?
If you suspect that your dog has ingested water containing blue-green algae, contact your veterinarian or visit your local emergency veterinary hospital as soon as possible. If caught quickly, the vet may be able to flush out the toxins before the fatal damage can occur.
Can dogs recover from algae poisoning?
“Your dog may take weeks or even months to recover from algae poisoning,” says Canine Nutrition Specialist Estrella Bolton. It is very important to treat ASAP because the toxin in the algae starts working very fast so speedy treatment is a must.
How long do blue-green algae symptoms last in dogs?
Symptoms of Cyanobacteria in Dogs There are many toxic strains of cyanobacteria that can cause symptoms leading to a fatal conclusion within 30 minutes to 24 hours.
How long does it take for algae poisoning in dogs?
Algae poisoning signs in pets Poisoning signs may occur from 15 to 30 minutes after ingestion and only a few ounces can be fatal. Death can occur after a few minutes or a few weeks following exposure. Signs may include: Vomiting.
How quickly does toxic algae affect dogs?
How can toxic algae affect my dog or other animals? Toxic algae produce toxins that injure your animal's liver, kidneys, or brain. Signs of poisoning can occur rapidly, within an hour of an animal swimming in or drinking contaminated water. In other cases, clinical signs may take several days to occur.
How long do blue-green algae symptoms start?
Signs/Symptoms Your Patient May Have Ingested Blue-Green Algae. The rapid onset of signs of cyanobacteria illness does not leave much time for treating the animal. Symptoms can begin anywhere from 15 minutes to several days after exposure. Clinical signs of poisoning are dependent on the toxin involved.
What happens if a dog eats blue-green algae?
Dogs can develop poisoning when they drink from, or even simply 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 include: Seizures.
Do dogs always get sick from blue-green algae?
The shortest answer is yes. Blue-green algae blooms can make your dog extremely sick, and they can die from coming into contact with water contaminated by blue-green algae.
How do I give my dog activated charcoal?
Activated charcoal is mixed with water for your dog to drink, or given orally as a medication. If the toxin is known, and known to be processed in the liver, treatment with activated charcoal may need to be repeated every 4-8 hours for several days.
Is blue-green algae treatable?
Worse still, there is no specific antidote for blue-green algae poisoning. Treatment is limited to supportive care focused on affected organ systems. Aggressive therapy including intravenous fluids and plasma may replenish electrolytes, regulate blood glucose, support organ function, and prevent shock.
What are the symptoms of blue-green algae?
Exposure to high levels of blue-green algae and their toxins can cause diarrhea, nausea or vomiting; skin, eye or throat irritation; and allergic reactions or breathing difficulties. Pet and livestock illness/deaths can happen if animals consume large amounts of water containing blooms, scums or benthic mats.
How long does toxic blue-green algae last?
We have found that a cyanobacteria bloom usually dissipates within three weeks, though the same body of water may experience several individual cyanobacteria blooms over the course of a year.
How can I prevent blue green algae poisoning in my dog?
Never let your dog swim in or drink from water sources you suspect may be contaminated by blue green algae, and if your dog has been swimming outside, always wash them thoroughly afterwards. Avoid going near any ponds or lakes that are known, or suspected, to contain blue green algae and ensure your pet does not have access to contaminated water. Remember, algal blooms have even been known to appear in garden ponds. If there are blue green algae warning signs in the area you’re walking keep your dog by your side.
How to report blue green algae in dogs?
Report an algal bloom. To report algal blooms call the Environment Agency 24-hours-a-day on 0800 80 70 60. If you suspect your dog has been exposed to blue green algae, contact your vet straight away or, out of hours, your nearest Vets Now pet emergency clinic or 24/7 hospital. There is no antidote for the toxins produced by blue green algae so ...
What is blue green algae?
Blue green algae — also known as cyanobacteria — are tiny organisms typically found in freshwater lakes, ponds, reservoirs and slow-moving rivers. The bacteria forms on the surface of the water and blooms, to create a green, blue green or brown coloured scum or foam. Some blue green algae is highly toxic to dogs.
Why is blue green algae bad for dogs?
Some types of blue green algae release toxins (such as microcystins and anatoxins) into the water. These toxins are not only highly poisonous to dogs when swallowed but are also dangerous for cats, horses, birds, cows and humans. Unfortunately, without laboratory analysis, it’s impossible to tell which blue green algae blooms are toxic and which aren’t.
Where is blue green algae found?
Blue green algae is most commonly found floating on the surface of freshwater lakes and ponds. However, toxic blooms are often blown to the edges — meaning dogs and other animals can be exposed to them even if they haven’t gone in for a swim or paddle. Dog owners should also bear in mind that even if there’s no visible scum or foam on the surface of the water, it doesn’t mean blue green algae isn’t present. It can be suspended at various depths, depending on the conditions. The bacteria has also been found on surfaces near water after being blown by the wind.
When are dogs most at risk from blue green algae?
Blue green algae most commonly occurs during the summer when rainfall is low, the sun is shining, and temperatures are higher — as this is when the blooms are more intense. Dogs who regularly swim or paddle in freshwater lakes and ponds are most likely to be exposed to algal poisoning. Many cases are the result of dogs inadvertently swallowing algae-contaminated water, but there have also been instances of dogs falling ill after licking their fur following a swim.
How long does it take for blue green algae to show up in dogs?
Signs in dogs exposed only to hepatotoxins can take between one and a few hours to show. The most common signs of blue green algae poisoning include: ...
What to do if your dog licked blue green algae?
What to Do If You Suspect Blue-Green Algae Poisoning. Rinse your dog off with fresh water as soon as possible to remove as much bacteria as you can. If you’re not sure if your dog licked or drank any water … follow the instructions below. You might also want to talk to your holistic vet.
What are the signs of algae in dogs?
In a perfect world, you will be able to avoid these algae but if your dog is out of sight with access to water … you need to look out for these symptoms: Seizures, muscle tremors, muscle rigidity, or paralysis. Blue discoloration of the coat, skin and mucous membranes.
What Makes Some Blue-Green Algae Toxic?
The toxins produced that cause illness are Microcystins and Anatoxins.
How to put pellets in dog mouth?
Twist the tube until about 3 pellets fall into the cap, then remove the cap and tip the pellets into your dog’s mouth (without touching them with your hands). A good way to do this is to pull out the lower lip near the corner of the mouth. You’ll find a convenient little “pouch” where you can tip the pellets.
What supplements can dogs take to help with liver problems?
So, when you get a chance … ask your vet to make sure your dog gets liver support. Many vets will give Sam-E, N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC) or vitamin C. If they don’t, ask if you can bring one or more of these supplements for them to give at the clinic. Not all dogs die from algae poisoning.
How to get a dog to spit out pellets?
Take a clean amber glass dropper bottle. Add a few pellets to the bottle, fill it about ¾ full with spring or filtered water … then top up the rest with brandy or vodka to preserve it. Shake the bottle vigorously about 10-20 times … and shake it again before each dose.
How to help a dog that has no symptoms?
If your dog has no symptoms but you think he might’ve drunk some water …. Immediately give a dose of activated charcoal. This is best used within an hour or two of exposure. Charcoal binds to toxins and can help remove them from his body. If he has swallowed some toxic water, it could help him eliminate the toxins.
What is blue green algae?
Blue-green algae are not technically algae, but the name used to describe a group of bacteria called cyanobacteria. These bacteria can’t be seen with the naked eye but when they clump together on the surface of the water they can look like green, blue-green or brown algae. They’re appearance is sometimes describes as a blue-green scum or foam ...
Is blue green algae toxic to dogs?
Not all types of blue-green algae are dangerous, but some can produce toxins which are very harmful to a dog’s liver. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to tell which blue-green algae are toxic and which aren’t, without laboratory testing.
Treating a dog that my have ingested blue green algae toxins?
I think my dog (6 lb Yorkie) may have ingested blue green algea toxins. This would have been nearly 48 hours ago, she is very lethargic but no seizures. She doesn't want to eat. What do I need to do and what can a vet do?
Prednisone Side Effects in Dogs
Prednisone is a corticosteroid that can be used in multiple canine diseases. However, when prescribing this medication, the prednisone side effects should also be considered, as these may cause a lot of damage if administered as a long term treatment. Uses of Prednisone Among the synthetic corticosteroids, prednisone is
How Can I Protect My Pet From Harmful Algal Blooms?
The best way to protect your dog from exposure to harmful algal blooms is to never let them swim in or drink from lakes, ponds, and other potentially contaminated bodies of water, especially if they have visible algal blooms or a bad odor.
What to do if pond is contaminated with algae?
If you suspect that a pond, lake or water source is contaminated with blue-green algae, you should report it to your state’s health department.
What Causes Algal Blooms?
An algal bloom is a rapid increase in a population of algae within an aquatic environment.
What are the causes of the increase in the frequency, severity, extent and broader geographic distribution of harmful algal bloom?
According to a 2013 study, “Mounting evidence indicates that global climate change, watershed degradation and increased nutrient loading of freshwater systems are contributing to the increased frequency, severity, extent and broader geographic distribution of harmful algal blooms (HABs), including cyanobacteria HABs (cyanoHABs).”
Why are cyanotoxins dangerous to pets?
Cyanotoxins are more commonly fatal for our pets because they are more likely to swim and drink from potentially contaminated water sources. People, on the other hand, would be less likely to jump into or drink water from a water source that has a bad smell or a visible algal bloom.
What is the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Algal Bloom Sampling Status tool?
For example, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has an Algal Bloom Sampling Status tool that provides a map with testing results for various bodies of water. They also provide a way to report a potential algal bloom so that the water can be tested.
Does algal bloom kill pets?
It’s a terrifying headline that keeps popping up lately: Harmful algal bloom kills beloved pet. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) website, harmful algal blooms (HABs) have been reported in every coastal US state. Blue-green algae spottings are on the rise; the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ...
What to do if my dog ingests blue green algae?
The severity of this algae toxicity occurs quickly. If you suspect your pet ingested water with toxic blue-green algae, seek treatment at once. Treatment means promptly ridding your pet of the toxin by inducing vomiting. Activated charcoal also helps absorb the toxin but there is no antidote.
What Is Blue-Green Algae?
Blue-green algae blooms on the top of the water and thrives in warm, humid climates. We mostly find these algae in the southern United States because of the warmer than average, humid climate. Lately, though, we are seeing this toxicity in northern regions with milder climates. The algae develop on brackish water that contains run-off from fertilizers and in nutrient-rich water that fosters bacteria.
What is the algae in a pond?
Standing water like ponds, ditches, and lakes contain debris, scum, protozoa, and bacteria. This can include blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, a greenish scum that forms on the top of still water. Cyanobacteria is an algae to be concerned about when it comes to your pet’s safety.
How to keep a pet safe from a pond?
Prognosis, unfortunately, with this form of toxicity is generally poor. Because of this, prevention is especially key to keeping your pet safe. Prevent your pet from drinking from or swimming in any ponds, lakes, or water sources that are stagnant. These also include bird baths, fountains, and fish ponds (which should be scrubbed and refilled often).
How to tell if blue green algae is toxic?
Both toxins negatively impact the liver and central nervous system. Common signs of blue-green algae microcystin toxicity are: Vomiting. Diarrhea. Tarry stool. Low blood sugar and protein levels. Jaundice. Bleeding.
What does a veterinarian do for a dog?
Your treating veterinarian will give your pet intravenous fluid therapy and plasma to regulate blood glucose levels and electrolytes. They will monitor for liver function and provide other supportive treatments to prevent organ failure and shock.
What animals are affected by blue green algae?
Commonly affected animals include cattle, sheep, goats, llamas, and horses, as well as dogs and cats (although less likely in cats). Blue-green algae can be deadly for dogs.
What Is Blue-Green Algae and Why Is It Dangerous to Dogs?
So what is blue-green algae and why is it such a threat? The name is a bit deceiving, as this isn't really an "algae" but rather a form of photosynthetic bacteria, called cyanobacteria. Some species of cyanobacteria aren't visible to the naked eye but when large clumps of it come together, they can form a blue-green sheen on the surface of water that resembles an algae bloom. Cyanobacteria are found in brackish fresh water such as lakes and ponds and can also be found in stagnant water in bird baths, flower pots, or backyard ponds.
What Are the Symptoms of Blue-Green Algae Toxicity?
Blue-green algae contains two distinct types of toxins: microcystins and anatoxins, both of which can have a specific and devastating effect on a dog's body. Microcystins affect the liver, resulting in:
What should I do if I think a waterbody is contaminated by blue-green algae?
If you come across a body of water that you think may contain blue-green algae, do not go in it yourself, or let your dog swim in it or drink from it.
What is blue-green algae?
Despite the name, blue-green algae actually describes several types of bacteria that live in water. They are found throughout the UK in some ponds, streams, lakes, rivers and thrive in warm and nutrient rich water. Certain types of blue-green algae produce toxins that can be poisonous to wildlife, humans and dogs. Under certain conditions blue-green algae can multiply rapidly, forming large “blooms” that can contaminate and pollute the water, making it dangerous to animals.
What time of year is blue-green algae most common?
It’s found most often in, or after, hot and sunny periods (i.e. mid to late summer) and especially after heat waves.
What is the number to report blue green algae?
In the UK, incidents of blue-green algae should be reported to the Environment Agency which has a 24-hour incident hotline (telephone: 0800 80 70 60).
What to do if you're worried about your dog's health?
If you're worried about your dog's health, always contact your vet immediately!
Can dogs drink blue green algae?
Blue-green algae can produce toxins that may be deadly to dogs. Do not let your dog drink, or swim in, water that you think might be contaminated with blue-green algae. If your dog becomes unwell, contact your vet immediately.
Can dogs lick water?
Dogs may lick the contaminated water from their fur and can be poisoned this way. If you come across a body of water that you think may contain blue-green algae, do not go in it yourself, or let your dog swim in it or drink from it.