Dog owners in Carinthia, Austria are being warned about the potential dangers of blue algae (cyanobacteria) in twelve monitored lakes, following reports of dog deaths potentially linked to the algae in Wocheinersee, Slovenia. Authorities advise vigilance regarding water color, particularly blue-green hues or light green mucus, as the algae can be poisonous to pets.
Concerns among Carinthian pet owners have risen following reports of several dog deaths at Wocheinersee in Slovenia, potentially caused by blue algae. The Carinthian government monitors twelve lakes for blue algae blooms, according to Georg Santner of water ecology. “There are a lot of small lakes, such as the Moosburg Mühlteich, the Zmulner See, the Trattnigteich, but also larger bodies of water such as the Afritzer See or the Ossiacher See are included in this monitoring list,” Santner stated.
Recent water samples from the monitored lakes have been found to be within safe limits, Santner emphasized. However, dog owners are urged to be particularly cautious at bathing areas. An intense blue-green discoloration of the water, or the presence of light green mucus, indicates a higher concentration of blue-green algae and poses a risk.
Toxic Compounds and Rising Temperatures
Blue algae contain two primary toxins: anatoxins and microcystine. Microcystine levels tend to increase in late summer,attacking the liver and causing symptoms such as diarrhea,vomiting,and cramps in affected dogs.Immediate veterinary attention is crucial in these cases. Anatoxins, however, are particularly perilous, causing paralysis within minutes. State veterinarian Gunther Vogl warned that if a dog ingests anatoxins and its stomach is not promptly pumped, breathing paralysis and death can occur.
Water temperature plays a notable role in algae growth; warmer temperatures increase the likelihood of blooms. Water ecologist Santner predicts that blue-green algae blooms could become more frequent in the future due to rising temperatures.
