Blue-green algae are a natural part of all Wisconsin rivers and lakes. When nutrients in the water increase, so do algae. This increase in algae, called a bloom, is more common in late summer. Some blue-green algae blooms produce toxins that can be dangerous when ingested.
Local public health agencies can’t continually monitor beaches for blue-green algae. Watch for and avoid swimming in water that looks green like “pea soup,” appears scummy, or has floating mats that may be green, blue, white, red, or brown. Also, be sure to choose the clearest water you can find for small children and dogs to use.
Dogs won’t instinctively know if the water is safe when they jump in, so keep them out of unsafe conditions and prevent them from drinking untreated water. Dogs are especially susceptible to blue-green algae toxins because they swallow more water than humans while swimming.
What should you watch for if your dogs (or you!) have gone swimming in potentially affected water?
💧 vomiting
💧 diarrhea
💧 weakness
💧 difficulty breathing
💧 seizures
Symptoms may begin within minutes of exposure.
If you or your dog exhibits these symptoms or if you think your dog might have been exposed, contact your doctor or veterinarian right away. Learn more at https://dnr.wi.gov/lakes/bluegreenalgae/
