Blue Green Algae

As we are approaching the height and heat of the summer we often look for ways to keep cool and keep our dogs cool! But keep in mind green blue algae is toxic to our best friends!

From the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency…….

Hot, calm weather creates the perfect conditions for algae growth in Minnesota lakes. Blue-green algae “blooms” have a thick, cloudy appearance that can look like green paint, pea soup, or floating mats of scum. Some, but not all, species of blue-green algae contain potent toxins that can be deadly to dogs, livestock, and other animals within hours of contact. The toxins can also sicken humans.

Blue-green algae blooms can occur anytime during the summer, though they are normally associated with warm weather and low rainfall. Algae are a natural part of the ecosystem, but under certain conditions, algae populations can “bloom” with dramatic growth. Most blue-green algae are not toxic, but there is no way to visually identify whether a particular bloom contains toxins that are harmful to people or animals. If it looks and smells bad, don’t take a chance. If in doubt, stay out!

https://www.pca.state.mn.us/news-and-stories/blue-green-algae-if-in-doubt-stay-out?