It’s that time of year again. During the summer, warm temperatures, longer daytime hours, and excess nutrients create the perfect conditions for algal blooms to thrive. While not all types of algae are dangerous for people and pets, it’s important to know the causes and signs of toxic algae blooms in Oregon.
What Is Toxic Algae?
“Toxic algae,” or cyanobacteria, is actually not even an algae! It’s a type of bacteria that acts like a plant, using photosynthesis to create energy and food from sunlight. Under the right conditions, these bacteria reproduce rapidly, growing into a large, visible mass called a bloom. Harmful algal blooms (or HABs) produce dangerous toxins. HABs may also be called blue-green algae, red tides, or toxic algae blooms. Cyanobacteria are the most common culprit of HABs in freshwater in the United States.
The Danger of Toxic Algae Blooms
Cyanobacteria blooms can produce extremely dangerous toxins! Pets and children are particularly susceptible to the effects of these toxins.
Dogs can ingest these toxins when swimming, playing fetch in contaminated water, and licking their paws or fur after swimming. Even a small amount of ingested water can have dangerous consequences. Dogs have become very sick and even died after swimming in and swallowing water affected by toxic algae.
Exposure to toxic algae blooms can lead to:
- Weakness or collapse
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Excessive drooling
- Weakness, fatigue, stumbling
- Abdominal pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Shaking, trembling, and seizure-like activity
- Liver failure
While not all algal blooms are toxic, it’s impossible to tell if they’re harmful just by looking. That’s why it’s best to remember the motto: When In Doubt, Stay Out!
Avoiding Toxic Algae Blooms In Oregon
Cyanobacteria can be found in all freshwater bodies. However, blooms grow best in slow-moving or still water, like ponds, lakes, and some rivers.
Cyanobacteria blooms may look like mats floating in the water or stuck on the bottom or the shore. Watch for suspicious water—foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green, blue-green or brownish red, or with bright green cells suspended in the water column.
This helpful resource from the USDA can help you learn the difference between harmful blue-green algae and regular algae. You can also track current health advisories for toxic algae blooms in Oregon by following the Oregon Health Authority (OHA).
Currently, there are no cyanobacteria advisories for Clackamas County. However, checking before a long day of swimming with your furry friends is always a good idea!
What To Do If Your Pet Has Been Exposed To Toxic Algae
If you think you or your pet have been exposed to a cyanobacteria bloom, act quickly! Acute and even life-threatening symptoms can develop rapidly. Some dogs have died from toxin-related complications just 4 to 24 hours after exposure. If your dog shows any of the above symptoms following a day on the water, contact your vet or the nearest veterinary emergency room ASAP.
The sooner you can start treatment after toxic algae exposure, the better. Depending on your pet’s condition, your veterinarian will likely recommend supportive care. This could include IV fluids, oxygen, and anti-seizure medications. They may also recommend blood work to look for signs of organ injury.
Cyanobacterial toxicity can be devastating, even with veterinary intervention. Sadly, the prognosis related to blue-green algae toxicity is poor. That’s why prevention truly is your best defense!
Keep Pets Safe This Summer! When In Doubt, Stay Out
As pet owners, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential dangers of toxic algae blooms and take proactive steps to protect our furry friends. By staying up-to-date about current health advisories for toxic algae blooms, we can help keep our pets safe.
If you suspect that your pet has been exposed to toxic algae, don’t hesitate to seek immediate veterinary care! Prompt action can make a all the difference in your dog’s treatment and recovery. Let’s work together to keep our pets healthy and happy this summer!