15/08/2019
Some local information for Arkansas pet owners about the "blue green" algea toxicity warnings we've all been seeing of Facebook. Keep those pets safe as you beat the heat in these dog days of summer! 🐶🐾❤
Blue-Green Algae: Should I worry?
Social media stories of pet deaths resulting from exposure to cyanobacteria from algae blooms have produced heartbreak and fear among pet owners who wonder if their own pets are at risk. Today, we spoke with Jeff LeMaster, Branch Manager at the Office of Water Quality at the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ.) Here's what you need to know:
High temperatures and low rainfall create the ideal environment for "blue-green" algae to bloom and create a toxic situation for pets and people. There have been harmful blooms in Georgia, North Carolina and Texas, with devastating consequences. However, as of 8.14.19 there has been only 1 report filed in Arkansas of a suspected harmful algae bloom - from a golf course in Pulaski County.
Citizens may report concerns over a potential bloom through an online complaint form provided by the ADEQ. In the summer of 2018, fewer than 10 reports were filed and there were 0 confirmed positive tests. However, blooms can come and go before tests are completed due to changes in water or temperature conditions.
In Arkansas, harmful blooms are rare on public bodies of water. There is little data on private bodies of water as they may go unreported.
Given recent high temperatures and a break in rainfall, northwest Arkansas is at peak risk for the formation of harmful algae blooms. People and pets who swim in lakes, ponds and streams should take precautions and avoid contact if they suspect an algae bloom. Rapid growth of algae can form a visible scum or mat near or on the water’s surface. It is not always possible to tell just by looking whether algae is toxic or merely a nuisance, so It’s best to avoid contact with water if you see an algal bloom.
Dogs are particularly susceptible to blue-green algae poisoning because the scum can attach to their coats and be swallowed during self-cleaning. Swallowing contaminated water can cause severe diarrhea, vomiting, liver and kidney toxicity, numbness, difficulty breathing and death.
If you suspect a harmful algal bloom, you are encouraged to submit a report on the ADEQ website and include the following information: a detailed description of bloom location, color, size, any distinct odors. Photos should be attached. Your submissions will provide useful data on tracking bloom occurrence throughout the state.
Link to report a suspected bloom: https://www.adeq.state.ar.us/complaints/forms/harmful_algae_complaint.aspx