Blue Green Algae Poisoning in Dogs – Signs & Help

What you can do now

1. Contact your vet.
2. Note when it started, how often it happens and what else you see.
3. Take a photo or short video to show the vet.
4. Keep fresh water available.
5. Let your dog rest somewhere calm.

Don't

• Do not give your dog any human medicine.
• Do not wait if it gets worse.

What it is

Blue green algae is a dangerous bacteria found in still or slow-flowing water; it produces invisible toxins that can cause organ damage and sometimes death.^[1] Blue green algae can be difficult to spot in water.^[1]

Signs

• Green/blue scum or streaks on the water’s surface
• Green or brown clumps floating on the surface
• Cloudy water with a green/blue/brown appearance
• Green flakes or brown dots
• Foaming at the shore’s edge
• Dead fish or wildlife in the water
• Vomiting, sometimes with blood
• Twitching or seizures
• Increased thirst, drooling or diarrhoea
• Breathing difficulties, collapse or sudden/unexplained death

Causes and risk factors

• Still or slow-flowing water
• Exposure to blue green algae

How vets treat it

• Thorough cleaning to remove toxins from your dog’s fur
• Toxin removal
• A charcoal meal to absorb toxins remaining in the stomach
• Fluids or a drip
• Medication

What the experts say

“Once your dog is at the vets their treatment may include: Thorough cleaning - to remove any toxins from their fur. Toxin removal - your vet might need to make your dog sick and give them a charcoal meal to absorb any toxins remaining in their stomach.”

Common questions

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