Animal Health
Harmful Cyanobacteria Blooms (HCBs)
Harmful Cyanobacteria Blooms (HCBs), sometimes called blue-green algae, can produce toxins that are harmful to animals and people. Dogs are especially at risk because they may drink contaminated water, swim in affected areas, or ingest algae while grooming.
Knowing how to recognize potential blooms and avoiding exposure are important steps in protecting pets and livestock.
Signs of Exposure and Prevention
Signs of Exposure
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Excessive drooling
- Weakness or staggering
- Tremors or seizures
- Difficulty breathing
- Collapse
Seek immediate veterinary care if your pet shows signs of illness after contact with suspicious water.
Prevention Recommendations
- Keep pets away from water with visible algae or surface scum.
- Bring clean drinking water for your pets.
- Prevent pets from drinking untreated surface water.
- Rinse pets with clean water after swimming.
- Check current HCB advisories before visiting lakes, reservoirs, or rivers.
- Contact your veterinarian if exposure is suspected.
Recognizing Harmful Cyanobacteria Blooms
Harmful Cyanobacteria Blooms can appear in several forms, including floating surface scum, discolored water, or dense mats attached to rocks and other surfaces. Blooms may appear green, blue-green, brown, or resemble spilled paint.
If a bloom is suspected, keep people and animals away from the water.