As the weather warms up, many of us enjoy taking our dogs out for walks near lakes, ponds, and rivers. But before letting your dog take a refreshing dip or drink from a water source, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks of blue-green algae. Even a small amount can be fatal, and cases tend to spike during hot weather.
Despite its name, blue-green algae is not actually algae but a type of bacteria called cyanobacteria. It thrives in warm, stagnant water, particularly in late spring and summer. When it blooms, it can form a green, blue-green, or brown scum on the surface of ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers. This toxic bacteria is harmful to both wildlife and pets, especially dogs, who may drink from or swim in contaminated water.
Why is it Dangerous?
Blue-green algae produces toxins that can affect a dog’s liver and nervous system. Exposure can happen through drinking the water, licking wet fur after swimming, or even inhaling water droplets. The effects can be severe and sometimes fatal within hours.
Symptoms of Blue-Green Algae Poisoning
If your dog has been exposed, symptoms may appear within minutes to a few hours and include:
Collapse
Vomiting and diarrhoea
Drooling or excessive salivation
Weakness or lethargy
Difficulty breathing
Tremors or seizures
If you notice any of these signs after your dog has been near water, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
How to Spot Blue-Green Algae
To keep your dog safe, avoid water sources that have:
- A green, blue-green, or brown scum on the surface
- Foamy, thick, or cloudy water
- An unpleasant or musty smell
- Warning signs posted by local authorities
What to Do If Your Dog is Exposed
If you suspect your dog has come into contact with blue-green algae:
Report the suspected algae bloom to the Environment Agency or local council to help warn others.
Do not let them lick their fur—rinse them with fresh, clean water if possible.
Seek veterinary advice immediately to determine the best course of action.
Keeping Your Dog Safe
- Always carry fresh drinking water for your dog to prevent them from seeking out natural water sources.
- Avoid letting them swim in stagnant or slow-moving water in warm weather.
- Check for official warnings from local councils, the Environment Agency, or environmental groups.
RSPCA South London - For Every Kind Of Creature 
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Good evening
My name is Sarah-Jane Marsh. And I email you a few days ago about my dogs Boozer and Coco, and each time I put in my details of myself and my dogs, I then send it to you it then says it sorry but it cannot find my name or email address or anything but I need to get my dogs seen by a vet for a check up and I everything else so could you please contact me on my phone number which is: 07774565966 and my email address is sarahjanemarsh3@email.com please contact me because I am getting worried about my dogs as they have not been up to see you in a while
Many thanks
Sarah-Jane Marsh On Sun, 23 Mar 2025 at 15:16, RSPCA South London – For Every Kind Of
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