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Health & Fitness

Shallow-Water Alge Could Hurt Your Pet

Don't let dogs swim in water that is deep dark green in color. This could indicate the presence of highly toxic Blue Green Algae. Learn more on Westgate Pet Clinic's website at wagsandwhiskers.com

Blue-green Algae is an algae species that can form on Minnesota lakes and release a toxin that can seriously injury people and pets.

Blue Green algae isn't always poisonous, but in July and August when the water temperature in shallow waters gets above 85 degrees, the algae can secrete a toxin that gets into the water. If animals or people swim in or drink from that water, the toxin can get in the body and lead to liver failure. Animals can get seriously injured or even die from Blue Green Algae exposure.

Blue Green Algae doesn't float ON the water like duckweed, it is IN the water and decreases it's clarity.

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To learn more about Blue Green Algae toxicity go to Westgate Pet Clinic's website at wagsandwhiskers.com.

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