06/15/2026
Summer is here & so are the dangers of swimming with pets. ☀️ Unfortunately even where there are memories to be made, there are also always risks & it is important to be aware of those. Here are some reminders:
🔹 Not all dogs are swimmers & swimming ability can vary greatly by breed! Some are built with webbed paws & water resistant coats while others are short legged & may struggle to stay afloat or tire easily. Know your dog, or to be safe just get them a life jacket!
🔹 Recognize the signs of Harmful Algae Blooms or “blue-green algae” (Cyanobacteria). It occurs naturally in warm, slow moving water & produces toxins that can cause severe illness, nausea, & skin irritation in humans. It can be fatal to pets.
🔹 Harmful algae blooms often look like “pea soup” or clouded, colored water, Spilled paint or bright vivid steaks, Grass Clippings or dense floating mats and scum.
🔹 Harmful algae most often appears from May to October.
🔹 NEVER SWIM & DO NOT DRINK if toxic algae is present.
🔹 Tips to avoid encountering this - check local advisories before heading to reservoirs or lakes. Buy at home tests to screen for toxins that may be present.
🔹 WHEN IN DOUBT, STAY OUT!
Send this to all your pet owner friends to help keep them & their companion(s) safe this summer ❤️.
