07/15/2026
‼️Long but informative post ahead for all our lake loving pup and families‼️
Blue-green algae, also called cyanobacteria, can be extremely dangerous and even deadly to dogs. It commonly grows in warm, slow-moving or stagnant freshwater such as ponds, lakes, ditches, and reservoirs, especially during the summer months. Blue-green algae can produce powerful toxins that affect the liver, nervous system, or both. Dogs are at high risk because they often swim in contaminated water or drink from it and may also ingest algae while licking it off their fur after swimming. Symptoms of poisoning can appear within minutes to a few hours and may include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, excessive drooling, difficulty walking, tremors, seizures, trouble breathing, and collapse. Because the toxins act quickly, blue-green algae poisoning is considered a veterinary emergency.
Pet parents can help protect their pets by avoiding any body of water that has visible algae blooms, discolored water, surface scum, or warning signs posted by local authorities. Even water that appears clean can contain harmful algae, so it is safest to keep dogs on a leash near unfamiliar lakes and ponds and always provide fresh drinking water during walks and outings. After swimming in any natural body of water, rinse your dog with clean water and prevent them from licking their coat until they are dry. If you suspect your dog has been exposed to blue-green algae or begins showing symptoms after being near the water, seek emergency veterinary care immediately
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