By Jen Rinaldi



One of the nicest things about living in the mountains this time of the year is cooling off at one of our many lakes. But as the summer temps heat the water posing a danger for both humans and animals alike.

Algae are microscopic organisms that can be found naturally in all types of water. Sometimes algae rapidly grow out of control or bloom. In Arizona, a bloom of blue-green algae can produce toxins (poisons), which can cause serious illness in people and animals, and in rare cases can be deadly. These blooms are known as harmful algal blooms or HABs.

What Does Harmful Algae Look Like?

Harmful blue-green algae can:

• Look like pea soup or spilled green paint
• Discolored or streaky-looking water
• Surface scum, mats, or films
• Appear as green dots or globs floating below the surface

Symptoms of Intoxication

Dogs can develop poisoning when they drink from, or even simply swim in contaminated water sources. If blue-green algae is ingested, it can cause severe neurologic or liver damage. Signs of blue-green algae toxicity include:

• Seizures
• Panting
• Excessive drooling
• Respiratory failure
• Diarrhea
• Disorientation
• Vomiting
• Liver failure
• Ultimately death

If your dog begins to experience any of these symptoms, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. A good rule of paw to keep in mind when going to the lake would be to make sure that you stay away from stagnant water. 

As Smokey says, “When in doubt stay out!”