If you've lived in Utah for very long, you know that every summer we have several lakes that become dangerous when toxic algal blooms get out of control. The blue-green algae can cause serious health problems in humans and pets, and in the last few weeks several dogs have died in other states after being exposed to it. If you have a dog who loves to swim in Utah's lakes and waterways, you'll want to take caution.
Some pups love to swim, and they'll jump in any lake, pond, or river they find. Usually, it's a great way for your dog to get some exercise and cool off on a hot, summer day, but this time of year it's smart to keep a look out for algae that can be deadly.
Algal blooms occur in bodies of water when cyanobacteria, aka blue-green algae, grows quickly. The burst of growth can occur when temperatures rise, or if there is a high level of phosphorus present.
The Utah Department of Environmental Quality monitors Utah's lakes and rivers. Field scientists test water all over the state weekly, and put up alerts for spots where the algae tests as toxic.
Not all blue-green algae is toxic, and in fact some algae that tests fine one week can test at toxic levels the next. Unfortunately, it's impossible to tell which algae is toxic and which is not, unless it is tested.
The blue-green algae looks like green scum, or can make the water look like thick pea soup.
Exposure to toxic algae can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, skin irritation, and breathing difficulties. It can also affect your liver or nervous system.
Harmful exposure occurs when you swallow water that contains the algae, or if your skin comes into contact with it. It's even more dangerous for dogs.
Recently, dogs in North Carolina, Texas, and Georgia died after swimming in water where toxic algae was present. In 2014, a dog in Utah died after swimming in Utah Lake, which contained toxic algae at the time.
If you suspect that your dog has had contact with water that contains toxic algae, rinse him off with clean water as soon as possible. Signs of dangerous exposure include vomiting, lethargy, and difficult breathing. Visit the veterinarian immediately if your pup develops these symptoms; they can be fatal.
The Utah Department of Environmental Quality posts alerts and warnings on its website. Currently, 10 spots around the state have warning or danger alerts.
Warning alerts have been issued for: Blackridge Reservoir, Calder Reservoir, Manning Meadow Reservoir, Payson Lakes, Utah Lake, Upper Box Creek Reservoir, Wheeler Farm, and Yuba Lake.
A danger alert has been issued for Matt Warner Reservoir, which is completely closed to the public.
Keep an eye on the water quality around the state by visiting the Utah Department of Environmental Quality Water Quality page.
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