Dog owners warned to go safely at Loch Garten after algae confirmation
Dog-loving walkers are being warned of potentially dangerous algal growth on a Strathspey loch.
Cairngorm Vets at Grantown have issued guidance after receiving their own:
“We've just had advice from Public Health to say they've confirmed the presence of blue-green algae at Loch Garten.”
At this stage of a hot, dry start to the summer there are as yet no confirmations of the growth in any other of the strath’s lochs but, as the vets warn: “It's sensible to be cautious about any still or slow-moving water in these weather conditions.
“Please keep your dogs (and you!) away from the water in and around this area.
“Tempting as it is to go for a dip, these algal blooms are highly toxic. Slow-moving or still bodies of water are most prone to developing blooms.”
You can find more information here:
Blue Cross advise:
Blue-green algae can be highly poisonous, or even fatal to dogs, so it's important that you don’t let your dog drink from or swim in water containing blue-green algae.
Blue-green algae is a term used to describe a group of bacteria, called cyanobacteria. They are not actually algae, but the organisms got this name because they often give the appearance of algae when they clump together in bodies of water.
Blue-green algae is most common in non-flowing, fresh water such as lakes, ponds and rivers. Certain conditions such as hot summer weather can cause it to thrive and grow rapidly, forming a 'bloom' of blue-green algae on the water. It can also be seen during other times of the year.
Some types contain toxins that can are highly poisonous and often fatal to pets. It can also cause illness in people if touched or swallowed.
Dogs are at risk from blue-green algae if they swim in or drink contaminated water, or if they get algae caught in their fur and ingest it while cleaning themselves later on. This is because blooms of blue-green algae can produce harmful toxins which stop a dog’s liver from functioning properly.
Exposure to toxic blue-green algae is often fatal and it can cause long term health problems in dogs that survive. Concentrations of the algae vary throughout the year, but it's best not to run the risk of allowing your dog to come into contact with water where the algae may be present.
What are the symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning?
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Some types of blue-green algae can cause symptoms, or become fatal, just 15 minutes to an hour after a dog drinks contaminated water. If your dog shows any of the following signs after drinking from, swimming or paddling in water, contact your vet immediately and tell them you are concerned about blue-green algae:
Vomiting (being sick)
Diarrhoea
Seizures or fitting
Weakness, collapse or unconsciousness
Disorientation or confusion
Drooling
Breathing difficulties
These symptoms are commonly seen with other illnesses too, which are often less serious, but you should always call your vet if you are worried that your dog is unwell.
What treatment is my dog likely to receive for blue-green algae poisoning?
There is no antidote for the toxins produced by the blue-green algae, but if caught early enough, your vet will likely try to make your dog sick and attempt to flush the toxins from the body before they take hold. Sadly, blue-green algae poisoning often eventually causes fatal liver failure.
