Dumfries and Galloway Council have reported that Blue Green Algae which is toxic to dogs and livestock has been found in Carlingwalk Loch, Castle Douglas.
Blue-green algae, which is also called cyanobacteria, is a microscopic bacteria found in freshwater ponds, lakes, streams, and brackish water ecosystems. Note that not all types of algae are poisonous, but some types (e.g., blue-green) can produce toxins called microcystins and anatoxins. These toxins are so dangerous that they are actually poisonous to other species too: humans, cattle, horses, cats, etc. For this reason, you shouldn’t allow your dog (or child) to swim or drink water that has been potentially contaminated with blue-green algae.
Symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning
Clinical signs of blue-green algae poisoning depend on what type of toxin (e.g., microcystin vs. anatoxin) is present. Clinical signs of blue-green algae that produce microcystins, typically include:
- Malaise/lethargy
- Weakness
- Not eating
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Black-tarry stool
- Collapse
- Pale gums
- Jaundice (yellow) gums
- Shock
- Seizures
- Death
With blue-green algae that produce anatoxins, symptoms include:
- Inability to walk
- Hypersalivating
- Excessive (eye) tearing
- Tremors
- Muscle rigidity
- Difficulty breathing or blue gums
- Death
Further info can be found by clicking HERE
Please be cautious in letting livestock/dog drink from this source. Please contact Env Health on 030 33 33 3000 for more info #SupportDG
