Here in Ohio, we often see blue-green algae in lakes, ponds and streams.  The algae, also known as cyanobacteria, produces toxins that are very harmful to animals and people. The algae is not toxic in itself, but releases toxins which can harm you or your pet.

    A harmful algal bloom (HAB) occurs when cyanobacteria begin to grow quickly in a water body, creating colorful scum or "blooms".  These "blooms" frequently occur in shallow, warm water which receive a large amount of sunlight and nutrients.  These nutrients, such as Phosphorus and Nitrogen, are commonly found in fertilizers and waste products which can run into lakes and streams.  

    The "blooms" can look like floating green particles or look like scum on the surface of the water.  Colors of the algae can range from green, blue/green but can be red or maroon.  

How does my pet become exposed?

  • Exposure usually occurs after swimming in a contaminated water source or drinking for the source.  
  • Can also occur if the pet licks the algae off their fur.

What can I do?

  • Do not allow your dog to enter any water source that looks contaminated.
  • If your pet enters the water, rinse them off with copious amounts of clean water
  • Do not let your dog eat any algae on the beach or off their fur
  • Follow BeachGuard to track HAB advisories in Ohio. Click HERE to learn more.

What to look for if you pet gets into a suspect water source:

  • Lethargy
  • Inappetance
  • Drooling
  • Muscle twitching
  • Seizures
  • Not breathing well or stops breathing
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Belly pain
  • Yellowing of the skin
  • Dark colored urine
  • Skin lesions

                 

     Seek immediate veterinary care if you notice any of the above signs.  

Please read this PDF from the Ohio Department of Health to gain more understanding on how these Algal blooms can be identified for the safety of yourself and your pet.

If you have questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (513) 831-7444, or you can email us at [email protected]. Don't forget to follow us on social media East Hills Facebook, Red Bank Facebook, East Hills Instagram, and Red Bank Instagram.   

Information above was created with information from the Ohio Department of Health website.  Harmful Algal Blooms | Ohio Department of Health