Scots dog owners warned over 'toxic' algae amid hot weather

Scottish dog owners have been warned over “toxic” algae as hot weather continues across the country.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) urged pet owners to take precautions when walking dogs near freshwater bodies due to the warm weather bringing an increased risk of toxic blue-green algae growth.

The warning comes after multiple reports of algal bloom sightings in lakes, ponds of rivers in Scotland and the rest of the UK.

Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, is a group of bacteria that can contain dangerous toxins which can be harmful and potentially fatal to pets, livestock and birds if ingested even in small quantities.

The BVA said the algae may appear as green or greenish-brown scum on the surface of water like lakes and ponds.

Dogs can swallow the toxic bacteria by drinking water from an affected lake, river, or pond or licking their fur after swimming.

It’s also possible for dogs to come into contact with it even if they don’t go for a paddle, as toxic blooms may be blown to the edges of water bodies.

British Veterinary Association junior vice president Dr Rob Williams said that if ingested, toxic blue-green algae can make dogs “seriously ill and can even be fatal”.

“We’re urging pet owners to keep their dogs on leads near water bodies where blue-green algae has been confirmed or, if unsure if a water body is safe, to keep them away from it completely as it is not worth the risk,” he said.

Dr Williams warned that there is no known antidote for the toxins, adding that prompt treatment is critical to help give affected pets a chance of recovery.

“Symptoms can appear within a few minutes or hours of exposure, and commonly include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, disorientation, trouble breathing, seizures, and blood in faeces.”

If owners think their pet has been exposed to the algae, they are urged to contact their vet as soon as possible.

Confirmed sightings are identified by the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology’s (UKCEH) Bloomin’ Algae app, which encourages people to submit details and photos if they suspect they have spotted it.

Tips for pet owners

Look out for any warning signs near water bodies.

Keep pets on a lead and by your side around water bodies known or suspected to have a blue-green algal bloom – don’t let pets swim in it or drink from it.

If your dog has been swimming outside, wash its coat thoroughly with clean water afterwards.

Seek emergency veterinary treatment if you’re concerned your pet may have ingested toxic algae.

Report sightings of suspected blue-green algae with a photograph via the Bloomin’ Algae app. You can also set up notifications for confirmed sightings in your area.

There are other ways to help your dog keep cool in the warmer weather: paddling pools can give them somewhere to cool off and you should always make sure they have access to clean water and shade if outdoors.