DoveLewis Warns of Toxic Algae Risks in Oregon Waters

That picture-perfect summer swim could turn into a tragedy for your pet. DoveLewis 24/7 Animal Hospital is issuing an urgent warning to pet owners: toxic algae blooms in Oregon’s lakes and rivers are a growing, and potentially deadly, risk for dogs. 

“This isn’t just a mild upset stomach. Toxic algae can kill a dog within hours,” said Dr. Hannah Marshall, Critical Care Specialist at DoveLewis. “We’ve seen otherwise healthy pets collapse after just one swim or drink from a contaminated source.”

Toxic algae, commonly referred to as blue-green algae, is not actually algae at all, it’s a type of bacteria called cyanobacteria. These bacteria thrive in warm, stagnant water and multiply rapidly during hot weather, especially in nutrient-rich environments. The blooms often appear as green, blue-green, or brown scum or mats floating on the water’s surface. But the danger isn’t always visible, water can appear clear and still be contaminated.

When ingested, the toxins produced by cyanobacteria can cause liver failure, neurological symptoms, and death in pets, sometimes within minutes to hours.

The Symptoms Come Fast

If your dog has been near natural water and shows any of the following signs, seek emergency care immediately:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Trouble breathing
• Excessive drooling
• Seizures
• Weakness or collapse

“There is no antidote for these toxins,” said Dr. Marshall. “Treatment must be started immediately to give pets a fighting chance.”

How to Protect Your Pet:

• Avoid any water with green scum, foam, or an odd smell
• Bring clean drinking water for your pet when outdoors
• Check the Oregon Health Authority’s algae bloom alerts
• Rinse your dog thoroughly after any water activity
• Keep pets on-leash around unfamiliar ponds or lakes

Don’t wait until it’s too late. If your dog has been near water and starts acting strangely, even just seeming tired or off, get them to DoveLewis right away. When it comes to toxic algae, minutes matter.

For more information on pet safety tips, visit www.dovelewis.org.

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