Hunting Wife
Well-known member
I tend to hear about these kinds of things so thought I'd pass it along for my fellow dog lovers out there. Sounds like there continue to be active, toxin producing blue-green algae blooms in several states. I'm aware of fatal (or nearly so) canine cases in North Dakota, Nebraska and Montana for sure recently, but there could be others. Unfortunately there were no specific locations provided for these, though its possible dog owners don't know specifically where the contact occurred.
Take home message - stick to clear, cool water. If the water is discolored (usually blueish or dark green, but can be red/brown), if you see what looks like blue or green "paint" along the shoreline or in floating mats, or if it just doesn't look right keep your dog out of the water. I know, easier said than done but it takes very little toxin to cause illness or death, and it is not a particularly nice way to go. Once the weather cools down and water temperatures drop, the blooms should taper off.
You can get more information about blooms in specific areas by contacting the Health Department of the state you are interested in. State or federal wildlife agencies in the area might also be able to provide information on active blooms.
End of PSA
Take home message - stick to clear, cool water. If the water is discolored (usually blueish or dark green, but can be red/brown), if you see what looks like blue or green "paint" along the shoreline or in floating mats, or if it just doesn't look right keep your dog out of the water. I know, easier said than done but it takes very little toxin to cause illness or death, and it is not a particularly nice way to go. Once the weather cools down and water temperatures drop, the blooms should taper off.
You can get more information about blooms in specific areas by contacting the Health Department of the state you are interested in. State or federal wildlife agencies in the area might also be able to provide information on active blooms.
End of PSA