Toxic cyanobacteria or, blue-green algae is primarily a concern during the summer months, when it can be found in small lakes or ponds. Dogs can be exposed while swimming in lakes, ponds and pools of water caused by seasonal flooding and standing water, like that in abandoned swimming pools.
Dogs are exposed by drinking or licking toxic water. Drinking directly from a pond, gulping water while swimming or licking their wet fur following a swim are common routes of exposure.
Source: ROVER.com, July 19, 2022. Link. The Pet Poison Helpline offers a stern warning about cyanobacteria exposure: “While most blue-green algae blooms do not produce toxins, it is not possible to determine the presence of toxins without testing. Thus, all blooms should be considered potentially toxic. Very small exposures, such as a few mouthfuls of algae-contaminated water, may result in fatal poisoning.”
Unfortunately, there is no antidote for the toxins produced by blue-green algae.”
INSIGHTS: It is important to keep the warnings here top of mind with dog owners as they go outside to play and exercise their dogs. Use social media, newsletters and local media to spread the word.
For possible resources by U.S. State see Health and Environmental Agencies of U.S. States and Territories <Link>.