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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 14th August 2019
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Rise in reports of toxic blue green algae
Blue green algae blooms appear as green or greenish-brown scum on the surface of water.

BVA issues warning after affected water bodies confirmed 

A rise in reports of toxic blue green algae in several locations across the UK has prompted the BVA to issue a warning to pet owners.

So far this summer, blue green algae has been confirmed in water bodies in Southampton and Fleet in Hampshire, Edinburgh and Elgin in Scotland, Cornwall, Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Lincolnshire, among other locations.

Meanwhile, three dogs in North Carolina died this week, just hours after swimming in an affected pond.

BVA’s junior vice president Daniella Dos Santos said: “We know that some dogs enjoy nothing better than a paddle in a cool lake while on a walk during summer months, but my advice to pet owners would be to keep your dog on a lead during walks near water confirmed to have toxic algal blooms.

"While not all blue green algae are poisonous, it is impossible to tell the difference visually, so it is better to be safe than sorry.

“There is currently no known antidote for the toxins, so prompt veterinary treatment is essential to tackle their effects and ensure a good chance of recovery. If you suspect your dog has been exposed to blue green algae, rush it to your local vet without delay."

Blue green algae blooms appear as green or greenish-brown scum on the surface of water and can contain toxins that are harmful to animals, even in small quantities. Dogs swallow the algae by drinking the water or licking their fur after a swim.

Symptoms appear within a few minutes or hours of exposure and can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, disorientation, difficulty breathing, seizures and blood in the faeces. Left untreated it can cause liver damage and rapid death.

BVA’s advice to pet owners:

  • look out for any warning signs put up by the Environment Agency or local councils near water bodies
  • keep pets on a lead and by your side around water bodies known or suspected to have blue-green algal bloom – don’t let them swim in it or drink from it
  • if your dog has been swimming outside, wash it thoroughly with clean water afterwards
  • rush your pet to a vet immediately in case you’re concerned it may have ingested toxic algae. 


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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.