08/14/2019
We have taken this information from Parkland County Animal Shelter:
BLUE-GREEN ALGAE (CYANOBACTERIA)
Poisonous to: Cats, Dogs
Alberta Health Services has Blue-Green Algae alerts of the following lakes until further notice.
Bangs Lake - BONNYVILLE
Bear Lake - GRANDE PRAIRIE
Buck Lake - DRAYTON VALLEY
Chatwin Lake - BONNYVILLE
Cold Lake - COLD LAKE
Islet Lake - TOFIELD
Lac La Biche Lake - LAC LA BICHE
Lac Ste. Anne - ONOWAY
Moose Lake - BONNYVILLE
Shining Bank Lake - EDSON
Wadlin Lake - FORT VERMILION
Wapasu Lake - INNISFREE
Please watch for Health Advisory's in your area by visiting www.albertahealthservices.ca/news/bga.aspx
Dogs that enjoy swimming and playing in lakes and ponds may be exposed to blue-green algae. Hunting dogs are especially predisposed due to increased exposure outdoors. Poisoning is dependent on the toxin involved. Microcystins can result in liver damage or failure. Signs of liver injury include vomiting, diarrhea, blood in stool or black, tarry stool, weakness, pale mucous membranes, jaundice, seizures, disorientation, coma, and shock. Death generally follows within days as a result of liver failure. Blood work changes include elevated liver enzymes, a low blood sugar, a low protein, and even abnormal clotting. Aggressive, immediate treatment is necessary to help treat this quick-acting, potentially fatal poison!
Anatoxins result in neurotoxicity evidenced by excessive secretions (e.g., salivation, lacrimation, etc.), neurologic signs (including muscle tremors, muscle rigidity, paralysis, etc.), blue discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes, and difficulty breathing. Death follows within minutes to hours of exposure as a result of respiratory paralysis. Livestock that graze around affected ponds or lakes and are able to drink from them are often found dead near the water source. Treatment includes anti-seizure medication, oxygen, and aggressive care by your veterinarian.
Unfortunately, there is no antidote for the toxins produced by blue-green algae. Immediate veterinary care is imperative. If you suspect your dog was exposed to blue-green algae, contact your vet immediately for guidance.
More information can be found at www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/blue-green-algae/
