05/07/2026
With warmer weather finally here, many dogs are heading to lakes, rivers, pools, and beaches for swimming season ☀️🐾
Swimming can be amazing exercise and enrichment for dogs, but water safety is so important, especially when it comes to blue green algae.
Blue green algae is a toxic bacteria that can grow in lakes and ponds during warmer weather. Even small amounts can be extremely dangerous and sometimes fatal to dogs.
Blue green algae may look like:
• Green paint or pea soup on the water
• Blue or turquoise discoloration
• Thick surface scum
• Algae mats near shorelines
• Stagnant or foul smelling water
Dogs can be exposed by:
• Swimming in contaminated water
• Drinking contaminated water
• Licking algae off their fur or paws afterward
Symptoms can happen VERY quickly and may include:
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Weakness
• Drooling
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Collapse
Before taking your dog swimming, always check:
✔ Water quality alerts
✔ Algae warnings
✔ Water movement and currents
✔ Safe entry and exit points
✔ Whether the water appears stagnant or discolored
For more information on blue green algae and water safety, visit:
(https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/publications/p0/p00089.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
Life jackets are not just for dogs that cannot swim. Even strong swimmers can become tired, panic in rough water, or struggle with currents and getting back onto docks or boats.
A properly fitted life jacket can help prevent exhaustion, improve visibility in the water, and give extra support to puppies, seniors, and nervous swimmers.
When in doubt, use a life jacket, especially in deep, rough, or unfamiliar water 🐶💛
If you are looking for a life jacket for your dog this summer, reach out to us. We will soon be carrying some of our favorite dog life jacket brands in stock.