High temperatures cause growth in water bodies to explode
Stuttgart. The high temperatures of the past few weeks have led to the formation of blue-green algae in many lakes and bathing waters. What many people don't know is that blue-green algae are not algae at all, but rather so-called cyanobacteria, which are generally found in very low concentrations in all bodies of water. However, when the bacteria multiply in large numbers and release toxic substances into the water due to the increased temperatures and sunlight, they are extremely dangerous for humans and animals. Every year, dogs die because they have drunk from or bathed in contaminated water. Jana Hoger, PETA's specialist for animal companions, explains how blue-green algae can be identified, what the effects of blue-green algae poisoning are, and what precautions should be taken to avoid the negative consequences.
“If standing water is greenish and cloudy or has a slimy green film, animals should not drink the water or swim in it,” says Jana Hoger. “The toxins in blue-green algae can cause severe liver damage or liver failure. In the worst case, four-legged friends can die from cyanobacteria poisoning.”
PETA gives tips
- Pay attention to bathing bans: Dogs who like to swim are particularly at risk. Many municipalities warn bathers when waters reach a high concentration of blue-green algae or prohibit bathing areas completely.
- Check carefully: Even if no official warning has been issued, pet owners should check bodies of water very carefully for blue-green algae infestation in the summer and, if in doubt, avoid entering the water. In addition to green streaks or a green-blue carpet on the water, the smell of ammonia, rotten eggs and manure are alarm signals.
Take other walks: To avoid tempting the animals, it is advisable to plan walks during the so-called blue-green algae bloom (rapid proliferation of bacteria), which takes place on particularly sunny and warm days with temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius, away from standing water. - Keep dogs on a leash: To be on the safe side, people with dogs should always keep their four-legged friends on a leash near lakes, ponds and slow-flowing rivers and streams in summer.
- Wash dogs after bathing in water: Blue-green algae can also be absorbed through the fur of animals when they are groomed. This is why dogs must be thoroughly rinsed with clean water after a swim in a lake, pond or pool.
- Always have fresh water with you: People with dogs should always have a bottle of fresh water with them when they go for walks, to offer the animals something to cool down and drink on hot days or, if in doubt, to quickly rinse their fur.
Symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning
Dogs that have been poisoned by blue-green algae are lethargic, weak and disorientated. They have pale mucous membranes, excessive salivation and increased tear production. They may also experience muscle tremors, muscle rigidity, paralysis, seizures, shortness of breath, unconsciousness, vomiting and diarrhea. If poisoning is suspected, a veterinarian must be consulted immediately – there is a risk to life.
Blue-green algae poisoning is also very dangerous for cats, horses and birds. Once the animals have been poisoned, the course of the disease is dramatic and in many cases fatal.
In humans, high concentrations of cyanobacteria can cause severe mucous membrane irritation, headaches, diarrhea, vomiting, skin rashes or shortness of breath.
Blue-green algae are the oldest organisms on earth, they produce oxygen and can be found in every ecosystem. In addition to high temperatures, the supply of nutrients in water also promotes their growth. Substances such as phosphorus and nitrogen are washed into lakes and rivers, particularly by sewage treatment plants and agriculture.
Photos: © PETA Germany