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# Dog owners warned over danger of blue-green algae
- URL: https://lichfieldlive.co.uk/dog-owners-warned-over-danger-of-blue-green-algae/
- Published: 2022-08-06T05:48:00.000Z
- Updated: 2022-08-05T17:53:11.000Z
- Description: Dog owners in Lichfield and Burntwood are being warned about a potentially deadly bacteria in open water that can harm their animals.
- Author: Lichfield Live
- Tags: #wp, #wp-post, #Import 2026-07-22 19:11, News

Dog owners in Lichfield and Burntwood are being warned about a potentially deadly bacteria in open water that can harm their animals.

The PDSA charity say blue-green algae can be found in a variety of lakes, streams and other bodies of water.

Dogs who come into contact with it face death or serious health issues.

PDSA vet nurse Nina Downing said:

> “Blue-green algae can grow in all aquatic environments, but it’s most prevalent in still or stagnant water during summer.  
>  
> “This particular type of bacteria is highly poisonous to animals, and can sadly be fatal, or result in long-term health problems for those that survive.  
>  
> “Dogs are particularly at risk, as they are more likely to drink from ponds while out on a walk, or groom themselves after swimming in affected water.  
>  
> “However – the more aware we are of the potential dangers, the better we can protect our precious four-legged friends.”  
>  
> Nina Downing, PDSA

Blue-green algae often appears as a green or blueish scum, but sometimes has a brown tinge and it’s seen on the water’s surface.

Nina added:

> “It can sometimes clump up and the blooms can create foam on the shoreline.  
>  
> “There’s no way of telling if algae is toxic just by looking at it, and some types of blue-green algae are only dangerous at certain times of year, but always be cautious and don’t take any risks around it.  
>  
> “Be vigilant when walking your dog near any form of water, and if it looks bright green in colour, avoid at all costs.  
>  
> “Never let your pooch drink from a pond or lake with dead fish or animals in either, the water could be dangerously toxic and make your pet extremely ill with potentially fatal consequences.  
>  
> “Symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning can occur very quickly – within 15 minutes to one hour of exposure – and even a small amount can be lethal to a dog, so it’s important to act quickly and contact your vet immediately.  
>  
> “Signs to look out for include vomiting, twitching, seizures, diarrhoea, increased thirst, drooling, breathing difficulties, or a collapse.”  
>  
> Nina Downing, PDSA

Anyone who spots blue-green algae when there are no signs to warn dog owners can report it to the Environment Agency on 0800 80 70 60.