Blue-Green Algae Risks: Protect Your Dog from Lake Poisoning

Recently, three dogs tragically died after drinking water from Brooklands Lake in Dartford, a popular spot for dog walkers and anglers alike. This has raised serious concern among pet owners about the dangers lurking in seemingly safe open water bodies during spring and summer months.

Brooklands Lake, located on Powder Mill Lane in Dartford, Kent, while designated as a fishing lake, often attracts dogs for exercise and swimming. Unfortunately, the water has been contaminated causing severe health problems, even death, in dogs that have drunk from it. The Environment Agency has cordoned off the lake pending investigations and warned locals to keep pets away until the water is declared safe.

As a dog owner, understanding the cause and how to protect your pet is vital. Read on to learn about blue-green algae, its dangers, and practical steps to keep your dog safe while enjoying outdoor walks near water.

What Causes the Danger at Brooklands Lake?

The deaths have been officially linked to an unidentified poisoning, with strong indications pointing towards blue-green algae, a toxic algae bloom that can flourish in warm, shallow waters especially during dry and mild weather. Other causes considered include chemical pollutants or deliberate contamination, but early investigations confirm algae is the likely culprit.

Previous incidents in this area occurred in 2013, when high concentrations of blue-green algae appeared during summer, leading to public warnings. The algae blooms can produce toxins harmful to dogs and other animals who swim or drink the water.

Understanding Blue-Green Algae and Its Risks

Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) naturally occur in freshwater lakes and ponds. Warm weather and low water levels can trigger rapid growth, or blooms, which eventually die off in large amounts. The decaying algae releases toxins harmful if ingested or contacted.

Dogs drinking or swimming in water containing blue-green algae usually cannot taste or detect it. However, the toxins can cause severe symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, and, in the worst cases, death.

Signs a Water Source May Be Unsafe

It’s not always obvious if water is contaminated. Look out for these warning signs:

• Water appears bright green, murky or has a soupy texture.
• Faint foul or musty odour reminiscent of stagnant water or decay.
• Recently reported algae blooms or fish kills in the area.
• Warm weather combined with low water levels, which encourage algal blooms.

Nevertheless, some dangerous water can look clear and normal, so caution is advised.

Preventative Measures for Dog Owners

When planning walks near lakes, ponds, or rivers during warmer months, stay informed by checking local news or environmental updates about algae risks. Signs posted near water bodies must be respected.

If your dog tends to drink from water sources despite training, consider using a muzzle on walks near lakes to prevent ingestion. Carry fresh water to offer your dog regularly to discourage drinking from natural sources.

What To Do if Your Dog is Exposed

If your dog has swum in or drunk from water suspected to contain blue-green algae, watch closely for symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, difficulty breathing, seizures, or diarrhoea, and seek urgent veterinary care.

Prompt intervention can save lives.

Additional Considerations

Besides blue-green algae, pollution or contamination by toxins in water bodies can cause health hazards. Responsible pet owners should always supervise pets near natural water, especially in urban or industrial areas.

Awareness, prevention, and quick action are key to keeping your dog healthy and safe.

For those looking for reputable breeders or considering adopting a puppy, always research carefully and prioritise health and safety in all aspects of dog care.