Urgent warning to Scots dog owners over toxic substance on walking routes
PET FEARS Urgent warning to Scots dog owners over toxic substance on walking routes
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PET owners have been warned to protect their dogs from coming into contact with toxic algae which could kill them.
Experts from the British Veterinary Association (BVA) say there have been reports of blue-green algae growth affecting lakes, ponds of rivers across Scotland and the rest of the UK.
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Blue-green algae bloom can be fatal for pets
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It flourishes during hot weather
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The algae is a particular danger to dogs who love to take a dip
The algae, known as cyanobacteria, can contain dangerous toxins which can be harmful and potentially fatal to pets, livestock and birds if ingested.
It may appear as green or greenish-brown scum on the surface of water like lakes and ponds.
Dogs can swallow it by drinking water from an affected lake, river or pond or while licking their fur after going for a swim.
It's also possible for them 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.
Dr Rob Williams, of the BVA, said: 'Lots of dogs love water and won't hesitate to dive straight in when they see a lake or go for a paddle in a pond.
"But toxic blue-green algae is very difficult to identify and, if ingested, 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.
'With no known antidote for the toxins, 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 you have any concerns or are worried your pet may have had contact with blue-green algae, speak to your vet as soon as you can.'
Pet owners should keep a look out for any warning signs near water bodies.
It is also recommended that pets are kept on a lead around water bodies known or suspected to have a blue-green algal bloom.
Owners should also wash their coat with clean water if the animals have been swimming outside.
If there are concerns that dog may have ingested toxic algae, owners should seek emergency veterinary treatment.
We previously told how one distraught dog owner claimed her pet died after eating a 'toxic' substance at a popular walking spot.
The woman believes her canine guzzled something poisonous while out and about in Aberdeen.
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