A recent study has revealed that when dogs enter bodies of water, their skin, and fur can release active ingredients from flea and tick treatments – chemicals that are harmful to aquatic wildlife, including birds that feed on them.
Dog owners in Lanarkshire are being warned over the dangers of blue algae over the summer months.
A recent study has revealed that when dogs enter bodies of water, their skin, and fur can release active ingredients from flea and tick treatments – chemicals that are harmful to aquatic wildlife, including birds that feed on them.
The study recommends that dog owners avoid letting treated dogs swim for at least a month after application, to help reduce the release of harmful pesticides into lakes, rivers, and ponds.
However, while dogs may unintentionally harm lakes, the threat can also go the other way. Blue-green algae – a toxic bacteria commonly found in still or slow-moving freshwater during warmer months – has been responsible for numerous dog fatalities in recent years.
In response to these risks, Sean McCormack, the head vet at Tails.com , has explained how to identify blue-green algae and why it poses such a serious health risk to your dogs.
As we move into summer and sunlight becomes more abundant, the conditions for algal blooms become increasingly favourable.
Warm, stagnant water combined with nutrient-rich environments creates the ideal setting for blue-green algae to thrive, making the warmer months the most high-risk period for toxic algal blooms, particularly in lakes, ponds, and other still bodies of water.
What is blue-green algae, and how does it differ from green algae?
“Although the names sound similar, blue-green algae and green algae are quite different. Blue-green algae is a type of bacteria known as cyanobacteria, and in many cases, it isn’t visible to the naked eye”, Sean said.
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“However, when blue-green algae blooms and forms clumps, it can often be recognised by the water taking on a distinctive pea-green, soup-like appearance. Green algae, by comparison, usually looks like stringy plant matter that can be lifted out of the water or found draped over sticks.”
If you come across water affected by blue-green algae, it is generally best to avoid contact, for both people and pets. While not all blue-green algae is toxic, certain strains can produce harmful substances that may cause skin irritation, nausea, vomiting, or more serious health issues if ingested or inhaled.
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READ MORE: North Lanarkshire Council receives fifth-highest number of dog fouling complaints in UK according to new research
