With warmer temperatures, many pet owners may be enjoying summer walks without being aware of the harmful bacteria lurking in bodies of water.
According to an interactive map on the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology website, there is one potential hotspot for harmful algae in Worcester.
On the map, it is labelled as plausible that blue-green algae can be located at Worcester and Birmingham canal, just off of St George's Lane.
A vet charity, PDSA, has expressed concerns that blue-green algae will cause danger for dogs this summer.
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."
PDSA has released four tips for keeping your pets safe during these warmer months.
Recognise the danger
“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, 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."
Protect your pooch
“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."
Know the symptoms
“Symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning can occur 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."
Report and prevent
“If you spot blue-green algae but there are no signposts to warn dog owners, you should report it to the Environment Agency on 0800 80 70 60. They’ll test the water and put up signage in the surrounding area to warn owners and help prevent any potential future cases.”
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