Tag Archives: outdoor

Dogs

Heatstroke cases have increased!

Did you know that it’s not just pets in hot cars that can suffer from heatstroke?

According to a recent veterinary report, there has been a fivefold increase in heatstroke cases during June and August of 2022, with pets sadly passing away in one in four of these cases. Is this a result of global warming?

Keep reading to learn all about heatstroke, its most common signs, and how to prevent dangerous situations during warm weather.

Is heatstroke in pets common?

Heatstroke, also known as hyperthermia, occurs when the body is exposed to a high temperature for too long, and it can be dangerous for your pet’s internal organs.

Unfortunately, during warm days, there are many ways for your pet to find himself or herself in this situation. Owners often hear about dogs in hot cars and how it can be lethal in under 10 minutes, but long walks during warm weather, exposed kennels, and badly ventilated rooms can also cause a dangerous increase in body heat, even in cats or smaller mammals.

It’s critical that you be vigilant of situations where your pets might overheat, even if they seem comfortable or don’t seem to be in distress.

What are the signs of heatstroke in pets?

As we’ve mentioned, heatstroke can quickly become a serious problem and to ensure your pet has the best chance to find care in these situations, knowing the signs is essential.

Here is what you might spot:

  • Panting
  • Shallow, fast breathing
  • Excessive drooling
  • Refusing to move or collapsing
  • Gums that look very red and dry
  • Vomiting and diarrhoea
  • Seizures

If you see any of these signs, don’t ignore them! This is particularly important for pets who are old, overweight, have breathing difficulties, or suffer from certain problems like heart or kidney diseases, as they are more likely not to be able to regulate their temperature as well as other animals.

If my pet is suffering from heatstroke, what should I do?

When you suspect your pet might be suffering from heatstroke, move him or her to a shaded, cooler area and call your vet as soon as possible!

Based on your case, they will advise you on how to proceed but will most often tell you to try and run cool (but not cold) water over his or her body, which can help reduce temperature.

After that, your vet will want to see your pet at the practice to make sure his or her body temperature is going down in a safe way and that there are no further problems that need to be treated. 

 

In summary:

  • Recent studies show there has been a fivefold increase in the number of pet heatstroke cases;
  • Pets can suffer from heat problems by being trapped inside hot cars but also by being outside too long, going on long walks during the hottest hours of the day or being stuck inside a room with a high temperature;
  • The most common signs are collapsing, panting, drooling and fast breathing;
  • Knowing how to recognise these signs is essential to be able to help your pet before there are serious consequences!

Would you like to know more about dogs? Check our Canine Courses:

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Dogs

Make sure grass seeds are not a problem this summer

If you are yearning for some outdoor adventures with your dog this summer, our blog post is for you!

Walks in the countryside can be great fun, but it’s important to be mindful of grass seeds as these can lead to many problems!

Keep reading to learn more about grass seeds and how to keep your dog away from trouble.

What are grass seeds?

Grass seeds are small, arrow-shaped grass particles and are a common part of the woodland and meadow flora in the UK. As your dog passes by, these seeds can easily detach from the stem, and their bristles make it easy for them to get caught up in your dog’s fur.

 

Why are grass seeds a problem for dogs? How will I know if my dog is affected?

If grass seeds are entangled in your dog’s fur and stay put, you’re not likely to have problems. However, with your dog’s normal movement, these tend to migrate towards the skin, and their pointy end and arrow shape can easily pierce through.

As you can imagine, this will cause a lot of discomfort and pain, and you may notice your dog licking or nibbling at the affected area if they can reach it.

Other signs associated with grass seeds will vary depending on where they’re positioned. For instance, if the nose is affected, your dog may start sneezing a lot; if the problem area is a paw, you may notice limping. Other commonly affected areas are the ears, eyes, lips, and genitals.

 

What can I do to help my dog?

If you notice any of the signs mentioned, book an appointment at your vet practice for your dog to be seen. As these signs are common to a range of problems, it’s important for your vet to do a thorough physical exam to find out what is causing them.

If the grass seed is visible, the diagnosis is easy, but tests may be necessary if it is already embedded deep in the skin.

The treatment is aimed at removing the embedded seed and treating any secondary infections that might have developed. Some grass seeds can be removed with tweezers, but if they’ve travelled internally, a surgical technique may be needed.

 

What about prevention?

The only way you can guarantee grass seeds won’t be a problem is to avoid walking your dog in places where these can be found.

If you decide to go to a place where there are grass seeds, make sure to check your dog’s fur afterwards, paying special attention to the face and between the toes, and remove any seeds that you find. If you notice any soreness, redness and if the area is warm (signs of inflammation), talk to your vet.

If you have a long-haired dog, it may be worth clipping their fur during the summer months, which can also help them feel more comfortable with higher temperatures.

Being aware of these signs can help prevent a range of problems if you enjoy involving your dog in outdoor activities. Other than grass seeds, we’d like to remind you to make sure that your dog’s parasite treatments are up-to-date and to learn more about how to protect them from seasonal hazards such as heatstroke, drowning and adder bites! Stay tuned!

Would you like to know more about dogs? Check our Canine Courses:

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Cats

Should I bathe my cat?

If this is your first time owning a cat, especially if you’ve been a dog owner of a breed with considerable grooming needs, you might be asking yourself: “Does my cat need to be bathed regularly?”.

Domestic felines descend from wild cats of dry, warm climates and are not known for appreciating water very much. While some feline friends might adore water, generally this is a distressing experience for most cats and, because they are great at keeping themselves clean, it’s not likely you will need to put them in the tub frequently.

Keep reading to learn all about the dos and don’ts of feline grooming and hygiene!

Do cats really clean themselves?

Cats spend a huge amount of time during the day grooming their fur and, if they live with other cats, they might also groom each other. Because of this, our feline friends tend to keep themselves far cleaner and tidier than dogs. This means that, for the most part, you won’t need to worry about bathing them regularly.

In fact, as we mentioned above, they are not likely to appreciate being in contact with a lot of water and might react badly to any attempts to do so. If you include having to be washed with shampoo and then doused with water again, it can be a very stressful experience for them!

Most breeds also have fur that feels rather uncomfortable when wet, meaning that they might not like to have damp fur whilst it is drying.

While bathing is often not a concern for your cats, a good regular brushing (especially for breeds with long or dense hair) and ear or eye cleaning as needed can do wonders for their overall hygiene. Even more particular cats will likely appreciate your help removing loose fur, skin particles, or eye secretions.

When does my cat need bathing?

Even though grooming and cleaning is a big part of your cat’s life, he or she might get into situations that could lead to you having to intervene directly on his or her hygiene.

Here are some of the most common reasons why bathing your cat might be needed:

  • He or she is very dirty or has something on his or her coat (like grease, paint or anything else that might be dangerous) that needs to be removed;
  • Your vet has recommended regular bathing for a health condition (often with a medicated shampoo) such as infections or allergies;
  • He or she is no longer capable of doing his or her grooming, for instance, due to old age or difficulty moving.

If you’re unsure if you need to clean your cat or don’t know how, it’s best to contact your vet for advice. In case you suspect your cat might have got into something toxic or dangerous, don’t delay—talk to your vet as soon as you can so you know what to do next!

What’s the best way to clean my cat?

In case your pet does need a little help cleaning his or her body and he or she is not a big fan of water, it might be better to start with pet-safe wet wipes or a damp cloth.

If you need a full soak, it’s best to find a cat-friendly shampoo that won’t irritate sensitive feline skin, use the least amount of warm water possible, and have a nice, cosy spot without draughts where he or she can rest while drying completely.

Some animals might require regular bathing for the rest of their lives and, in these cases, you can try to get them used to the process by starting gently and rewarding them every step of the way while you work to get them used to and happy being in the water.

In summary:

  • Cats are very thorough at cleaning themselves and won’t generally appreciate being dunked in water;
  • If he or she is unable to groom adequately, has certain health issues and your vet has suggested medicated baths, or has got dirty with something difficult to clean, you might need to bathe him or her;
  • While it’s very rare for your cat to need a bath, he or she will need regular brushing and, every once in a while, might need his or her ears and eyes cleaned.

Would you like to know more about cats? Check our Feline Courses:cons-feline.jpg” width=”100%” />

Feline courses

Horses, The Pet Professionals

Is Equine Flu a problem?

Have you heard of Equine influenza? Also called Equine flu, this highly infectious disease affects the respiratory system of horses and donkeys, and it can quickly make itself at home in your yard!

These strains of viruses exist all over the UK, sometimes causing outbreaks that have forced many equestrian events to be delayed or cancelled and the halting of any movements of animals in the affected areas. As unvaccinated or otherwise vulnerable horses can suffer from a severe form of this disease, biosecurity and vaccinations are vital to ensure that your horses won’t be severely ill or prevented from entering competitions.

Learn everything about Equine influenza and how to stop it from entering your yard in our blog post.

What is equine influenza?

In the UK, this disease is commonly caused by two Equine influenza virus strains, the H7N7 and the H3N8. As with other viruses, these tend to continuously mutate and become more adept at causing larger-scale infections or outbreaks.

If your horse gets infected, you can spot:

  • Fever;
  • Depression and decreased appetite;
  • Persistent dry cough;
  • Clear nasal discharge that might evolve into a thick mucus discharge.

Animals that are young, unvaccinated or that have compromised immunity are more likely to suffer from a severe or even debilitating form of Equine influenza, possibly requiring veterinary intervention to avoid breathing issues or more severe respiratory infections.

Should I be worried that my horses might catch it?

Equine flu is a concern for all horse owners!

Equine influenza is endemic to the UK and extremely contagious, being able to spread from infected horses to your whole herd in no time. This is particularly important for owners who often travel to shows or events where many horses are gathering.

However, even if your horse never leaves his or her enclosure and you bring no other animals in, they are still at risk of getting or spreading this virus as it’s also very easy to catch it from droplets in the environment. Shared equipment, clothes, tack or bedding can all be important sources of infection, which means that any visitors to your yard might bring this disease with them.

Is there anything I can do to prevent equine influenza?

Vaccination is the best way to help prevent any issues with equine flu, and it is recommended that all horse owners vaccinate against it regularly. Not only will it help significantly to reduce the risk of serious illness but it will also increase herd immunity, helping prevent future outbreaks across the country.

In addition to a good vaccination programme, it’s recommended that you have effective cleaning, monitoring and quarantine protocols in place to limit viral spread.

If you’re concerned with the biosecurity in your yard, your vet can help you identify any points that could be improved and put better measures in place, so you can avoid not only Equine influenza but many other infectious diseases!

In summary:

  • Equine influenza is a common viral infection that can cause severe problems in yards;
  • We recommend you keep all of your horses vaccinated against Equine Influenza, even if they do not contact any other horses;
  • If your horse travels frequently or you often bring in new animals to your property, don’t forget to vaccinate, quarantine and watch them as needed;
  • In the case that one of your animals is struggling with breathing, fever or lethargy, don’t forget to talk to your vet as soon as you are able!

Would you like to know more about horses? Check our Equine Courses:

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Dogs

Do you take your dogs swimming? All you need to know for a safe swim

Summer is just around the corner! The time for those perfect days spent outside is almost here, but are you ready to tackle everything that the good weather has to offer?

Taking your dogs out with you to places with tempting water, like the river, beach, lake, or even a small pond, is a popular pet outing, but it’s essential to be adequately prepared. Even the strongest doggy swimmers can suddenly find themselves in trouble!

Keep reading to find out how to make these summer days safe and relaxed.

Does your dog like to swim?

Swimming is an excellent exercise for dogs as it is an exciting low-impact option that mentally and physically stimulates your pooch.

Some dog breeds are tailor-made for swimming, while others aren’t keen on doing much more than dipping their paws in the shallow water. But even if your furry friend has all the physical characteristics of a great swimmer, they might not like going into the water at all!

Always respect your dog’s comfort levels, and don’t insist on doing things he or she might not want to do, as it can cause a lot of distress.

However, it’s possible to acclimatise your dog to being in the water and even get them to like swimming. The best way to do this is to start slowly with toys and treats and get in the water with him or her. As he or she grows more confident, you can encourage going to a deeper water level but take caution to always support your dog when he or she is starting out and, as you progress, make sure that they won’t drift away.

Do you have any pet-friendly swimming places near you?

Depending on where you live, finding a good place to swim might take some digging! Only some places are safe or legal for your dog to swim in, so do all the proper research before you load up your family in the car.

Regardless of where you take your dogs out for a swim, never leave them unattended and keep them close by or on a waterproof leash so you can act quickly if necessary.

Doggy pools or pet hydrotherapy centres:

If you’re looking for the safest experience possible, a doggy pool or a hydrotherapy centre for pets can be your best bet.

These places have specially designed pools that are easy for dogs to use and have appropriately trained staff to help you and your dog make the most out of this experience. To access these, you have to pay a fee, and you’re likely required to book a slot ahead of time so everything can be ready for when you arrive.

Lakes or ponds:

Lakes, ponds and slow-running rivers can be great swimming experiences for your dogs as the water is often less dangerous and has fewer chances of hidden debris.

Nevertheless, always check the location and weather before letting your dog jump in and keep an eye out for any warning signage at the site, such as blue-green algae blooms or dangerous currents.

If these places have a designated swimming area, stay on them to avoid disturbing other people or the local biodiversity.

Open sea:

Going to a pet-friendly beach can be one of the most fantastic summer adventures that we can have with our dogs but don’t forget that the sea or the ocean can be unpredictable!

Strong currents, large waves, hidden rocks and people with boats or jet skis can turn a great day into a rush to the vet, so do think about safety before letting your dogs go into the water. As the water conditions can change quickly, always pay close attention to what is happening around you.

Make sure safety is a priority

Swimming is a great exercise, but it’s easy for accidents to happen if you are not prepared. Knowing what might go wrong and preparing ahead are the best ways to ensure everyone has a great time.

Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind:

  • Drowning can happen quickly and silently, so keep your dogs under close watch no matter what and consider fitting them with a life vest; 
  • If your dog falls into a dangerous current, do not jump in after him or her, as this might put both you and your dog in danger. Instead, call 999 and get the proper help. 
  • Have a fully stocked first-aid kit and the contact details of your regular vet or the vet closest to where you are.
Cats, Dogs

Prepare for the summer holidays with your pets

Whether you have plans to travel with your pets this summer or you are planning on going somewhere without them, it’s best to start preparing now!

Arranging the needed documents, finding pet-friendly places to stay or trying to get a reputable boarding kennel or a pet sitter so that you can be away without any concerns can take a lot of time and energy.

Keep reading to get to know everything that you will need to do before your holidays.

Taking your pet with you on vacations abroad

Imagine being able to share every second of your awesome vacations aboard with your furry best friend. More and more owners are choosing to take their pets with them not just on their domestic vacations but also on trips to foreign countries.

However, this can be a long process! Brexit introduced many new rules and requirements for pets going abroad, including health certificates and vaccines that must be done at least several weeks in advance.

Travelling to the European Union or Northern Ireland:

The requirements are:

  • Your pet must be microchipped;
  • Your pet must have a valid rabies vaccination, and this only counts as valid 21 days after the vaccine if he or she is being vaccinated for the first time;
  • An animal health certificate that an official veterinarian has approved, and this certificate is valid for 10 days for entry into your destination country in the EU or Northern Ireland;
  • If you have a dog and are travelling to Finland, Ireland, Malta, Northern Ireland or Norway, you will also need a tapeworm treatment.

If this seems too complicated, don’t worry! Your vet can help you every step of the way and answer any questions that you might have.

Travelling elsewhere in the world:

For travel to any non-EU countries, you will need to get an export health certificate for the country or countries that you are planning to visit.

This is a more involved process than travelling to the EU, so it’s probably best to talk to your vet well in advance of your visit so that they can ensure that you have all of the required paperwork and certificates that you need for your trip.

Finding the perfect boarding kennel or pet sitter

Travelling with pets is not for everyone, and when you’re going on a lovely, well-deserved holiday, you want to make sure that your pets will be in the best care possible while you are away from home.

Choosing whether your pet will spend some time at a boarding kennel, day-care centre, or with a pet sitter is usually down to your pet’s needs and preferences.

Day-cares and pet sitters generally allow for more individualised attention, so if your furry friend prefers to be alone or have his or her routines altered as little as possible, this might be the option for both you and your pet.

Choosing the right provider, however, will usually require researching and booking well in advance. The best pet services are often fully booked for the summer season, so this is definitely not something that you want to do at the last minute!

Keep in mind that a reputable kennel or sitter will:

  • Be appropriately licensed as well as insured, and will be glad to show you proof of this;
  • Be happy to answer any questions about their premises, qualifications such as pet first aid training and what they can accommodate, which is especially important if your pet has special health needs;
  • Be clear about how they will contact you in case of an emergency plus take your pet’s insurance and vet details;
  • Have independent reviews online and referrals from other people.

One of the best places to start your search is with your vet, as they are likely to know local places or people who can be trusted to give your pets a nice holiday as well.

 

If you’re going on vacations with or without your pets, don’t forget to make all the necessary arrangements well ahead of time! This will save you a lot of headaches, having to solve difficult issues and stressing over whether your pet will be taken care of properly.

Cats, The Pet Professionals

Worried about fleas in your cats?

As the weather becomes warmer and more inviting, the number of pet parasites like fleas, ticks and mites increases significantly. Fleas are almost ubiquitous, and all cats are at risk, even those that don’t ever leave the house, as it’s very easy for us humans to bring them in from the outside.

Once you have a flea infestation, it might mean that you have to treat your home alongside all your pets! Keep reading to learn how to deal with these bothersome parasites before they become a real problem.

What are fleas?

Fleas are widespread external parasites of many animals, including cats, and several species can infest our feline friends, but, by far, the most common is the Ctenocephalides felis.

These insects latch onto our pets’ skin and bite them to consume their blood. While most of the time, this blood loss is not a problem, in case of severe infestations in young cats or cats who may have other health problems, it can cause a potentially fatal anaemia.

Additionally, they are bothersome pests that can cause skin problems and they won’t hesitate to make themselves at home in your house.

 

Can fleas be dangerous?

Fleas can cause several problems, and it’s best not to let them linger around for too long!

Not only are they a source of skin irritation for your pets and for you, but they can also:

  • Cause Flea Allergic Dermatitis – cats who are allergic to flea saliva can develop severe itching even from just one bite, which can lead to hair loss, wounds due to intense scratching and skin infections;
  • Carry tapeworm – Fleas can be infected with tapeworm eggs, and if your cat ingests them while grooming, they can get infected as well;
  • Spread diseases to other pets – If you have rabbits and cats in the same household, fleas can be a source of myxomatosis, a deadly illness in rabbits, especially if they are unvaccinated;

How can I get rid of fleas in my cat?

In order to prevent all of these problems, the best way is to keep your pets’ parasite treatments always up to date!

There are various ways to kill fleas and prevent them from reappearing, such as using a spot-on treatment that you put on your cat’s skin regularly or prescription tablets you can get from your vet. You will have to treat all pets in the household simultaneously, including dogs or small furries, using a species-appropriate treatment.

You may also need to treat the environment if fleas have taken up residence in your rugs, carpets etc.

How frequently you need to apply these treatments will depend on your cat’s lifestyle, so if you’re unsure about this, don’t hesitate to talk to your vet about the best ways to prevent fleas.

Would you like to know more about cats? Check our Feline Courses:

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Cats, The Pet Professionals

Osteoarthritis in cats

During the winter, do your bones and joints ache a little (or maybe a lot!) more? If they do, you are not alone!

Our cats can also suffer from increased joint pain due to the low temperatures and high humidity during the cold season. However, our feline friends are experts at hiding their pain and discomfort, and it may be tough to know when you need to give them a little help.

Read our blog post below to learn all about osteoarthritis in cats and how you can help your pet if necessary.

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is one of the leading causes of pain and difficulty moving in cats, and this problem causes the progressive destruction of cartilage, which impairs the movement of joints.  Cartilage is the tough, flexible tissue that lines the joint surfaces.

Unfortunately, we don’t know exactly what causes the loss of cartilage in the first place. However, we do know it is more likely in older animals, pets that have suffered injuries or that have a genetic predisposition to joint dysfunction (for instance, hip dysplasia in Maine Coon or Siamese cats).

This means that, in a large number of cases, there is no observable cause as to why your cat might be suffering from osteoarthritis.

Could my cat be in pain?

As we know, many cats will hide their pain and learn to cope before owners realise that something is wrong.

The best way to avoid this is to keep a close eye on your feline friend and not chalk up changes to things like old age or even just a phase that they are going through.

Here are some of the most common signs that your cat might be in pain:

  • He or she no longer enjoys being touched and seems more temperamental when being held;

 

  • Struggling to do things that have always been effortless such as using the litter box, jumping onto places, going through the cat flap or using the stairs;
  • Significantly reduced activity, especially less time spent grooming and spending more hours sleeping.

During cold and damp weather, discomfort increases and these signs often become more apparent, leading to owners realising that something might be wrong with their beloved pet.

How can I help my cat feel better?

Curing osteoarthritis is often not possible, as most cases of feline osteoarthritis do not have an observable cause.  However, there are plenty of ways to slow this disease’s progression and modify your home to ensure your cat has the support and pain relief required.

Your vet will do all of the necessary tests to ensure that no underlying diseases need to be treated and then prescribe the best medication and supplements for your cat’s situation.

They might also suggest that you:

  • Find a litter box with smaller sides, so it is easier to use;
  • Move all of his or her things to one accessible place to avoid having to use the stairs;
  • Ensure sleeping places are not in draughty or cold areas, especially during autumn and winter;
  • Spend time brushing him or her to make grooming less bothersome.

As we’ve mentioned, winter can bring an especially hard challenge for these pets, so during this time pay special attention to the ways that you can help them feel better such as limiting time out in cold weather or making their living spaces a little easier and cosier!

Managing this condition is a joint effort between you and your vet, so don’t hesitate to let them know if you spot any changes or if you’re struggling to help your beloved pet!

Would you like to know more about cats? Check our Feline Courses:

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Dogs, The Pet Professionals

Taking your dogs for a swim

Taking your dog with you on outdoor adventures is nothing new! As more beaches, lakes and even pools become pet-friendly, there is a big chance you will be out in places where your dog could go for a swim. 

However, deep water, especially unpredictable water with currents or hidden dangers, is not to be underestimated! Dogs are naturally curious animals and are often not used to being out in these situations, a combination that can spell disaster. 

Keep reading to find out how to ensure your furry friend has the perfect swimming day. 

Can my dog naturally swim? 

While many people think dogs can swim, the truth is, this is quite variable! Many breeds were indeed selected to be peerless swimmers, but this does not guarantee that your dog, (even if from a working water breed such as Labrador Retriever or Poodle), will know how to swim or even if he or she wants to go into the water. 

Nevertheless, you can teach a dog to love swimming and increase his or her confidence in the water. 

It is best to take things slowly and, most importantly, never to force your pets to be in a situation that might cause them distress, such as dragging them into the water or throwing them beyond their depth. 

Another vital part of your dog’s swim journey is a well-fitting life jacket, especially if you are out on a boat and there’s a risk of falling overboard into dangerous currents. This buoyancy aid not only dramatically increases your pet’s confidence and comfort but can also save his or her life in case of an accident. 

If you are unsure how to teach your furry best friend how to swim or are struggling with getting results, consult a professional trainer. 

My dog is used to the water, so can I leave him or her unattended? 

You should avoid leaving your dog unattended around bodies of water, even if your dog is an excellent swimmer outfitted with a lifejacket, or even if he or she is in a place that they are used to going. 

It’s best to err on the side of caution in these cases, as there are many dangers lurking around these areas that can quickly turn the situation sour. Drowning can happen quickly and silently, so always make sure your dogs are not unattended or without a leash. 

If your pet leaves your sight and he or she returns to you listless, with an injury or vomiting, don’t hesitate to call your vet for help. 

What else should I consider when going swimming with my dog? 

Now that you’re all set for the perfect day with your dog, don’t forget to check the water conditions when you arrive. If you’re out on the lake, ensure that there are no blue-green algae blooms and that the water is safe to swim in. Watch out for strong currents or nasty waves when going to the beach. 

Sunburns and heat stroke are also a concern, so make sure your dog has sunscreen on, permanent access to shady, cool areas and plenty of fresh water.  

And, of course, no adventure is complete without a handy first aid kit! Here are some of the best things to carry with you: 

  • Bandages and surgical sticky tape; 
  • Cotton wool and sterile gauze; 
  • Scissors and tweezers; 
  • A comfortable and thick towel; 
  • Thermometer; 

This should cover many of the accidents that can cause injuries, hypothermia or even catching stray ticks.  

Why don’t you check out our video on canine first aid which covers first aid kits in detail.

In addition, remember always to keep your vet’s number and address with you so you can quickly call for help! 

Would you like to know more about dogs? Check our Canine Courses:

Canine courses

 

Dogs, The Pet Professionals

Dog owners beware! Bloom of toxic blue-green algae

The summer sun brings serious summer fun! Our countryside walks are back in full swing, with all due distancing and safety precautions of course, and there is nothing better than taking our doggy friends for a day out near the lake or jog around the forest ponds.

However, before all of this awesome fun can start, it’s important to remember that there are several dangerous situations that lurk around lakes, ponds and any spots where water remains stagnated for a long time.

 

Not your friendly sea algae!

Blooming blue-green algae are a frequent presence on still water when the days start warming up, and this year is no exception. If you’ve ever noticed green or brown scum floating on the surface of the water, you were likely looking right at blue-green algae!

Their name is misleading though, as they are not in fact algae, but are instead a type of bacteria. They are cyanobacteria, and they produce toxins that can be fatal to pets if ingested, even in small quantities.

A recent report by the British Veterinary Association indicates that these bacteria are back in full force, with one lethal case this year already so it’s definitely something owners should be aware of!

 

Signs of intoxication

Dogs, in their boundless curiosity, usually contact the bacteria by drinking some contaminated water, licking them off their fur after a refreshing dip, or just because they found the pond scum absolutely impossible to resist consuming.

Signs can show up within minutes to hours after exposure, and they can include:

  • Vomiting,
  • Drooling,
  • Diarrhoea,
  • Trouble walking,
  • Difficulty breathing,
  • Seizures.

 

If you spot any of these after a great day out, don’t delay! Veterinary treatment must be administered promptly as toxins will target the liver, causing irreversible and possibly lethal damage.

 

Avoiding dangerous encounters

Fortunately, not all blue-green algae are toxic, but it’s not possible to tell just by looking at them on lakes or rivers.

The best way to make sure there are no accidents is to always keep your dogs on a lead near lakes, ponds or rivers that have been confirmed or are suspected of having toxic blooms. Warning signs from the local council or the Environment Agency will often let you know if the site is safe for a swim or you can check their online notices.

Dogs that have been swimming outside should be washed with clean water to make sure there is no residue on the coat or limbs.

 

If you think your dog might have contacted blue-green algae, this is an emergency situation and time is of the essence! Cyanobacteria intoxication has no specific antidote, and the sooner treatment starts, the better the chances of a full recovery.

Would you like to know more about dogs? Check our Canine Courses:

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