The Hiwassee Dam Fire Department in Murphy, North Carolina, has issued a warning to pet owners following multiple deaths of dogs attributed to pond algae.
According to fire officials, at least three dogs have recently died in western areas after consuming water from algae-infested ponds, a phenomenon most prevalent from early to late summer.
The algae pose a severe toxicity risk to dogs. Pets can ingest the toxin through drinking contaminated water, swimming and licking their fur thereafter, or by ingesting algae clusters found on the water’s edge.
Symptoms of poisoning manifest rapidly, ranging from sudden nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea to confusion and seizures, with fatality occurring within hours to days without immediate intervention. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for algae poisoning in dogs.
Commonly known as pond scum, blue-green algae can thrive in various water bodies including fresh and saltwater, creeks, ponds, as well as stagnant water sources like troughs and containers. Toxic algae may also appear in red, reddish-purple, or brown hues.
It’s crucial to note that algae toxicity isn’t limited to dogs; it can also affect humans, cats, horses, and cattle. However, not all algae strains are toxic, necessitating laboratory tests for confirmation.
Algal blooms typically peak in late summer and early fall, often following periods of heavy rainfall. Prevention remains the most effective strategy against poisoning incidents.
Pet owners are advised to regularly inspect water sources for algae presence before allowing their animals to drink or swim. Vigilance is particularly essential for pets that have unrestricted access to water bodies prone to algae blooms.
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