After the death of one dog and the contamination of another – intoxicated by cyanobacteria – the authorities of this French department sounded the alert. The town hall invites us to redouble their prudence near contaminated water bodies, while the ARS think about closing the areas concerned.
Vomiting, convulsions and muscle rigidities
While a dog has already died of this intoxication (victim of vomiting and convulsive crises) and another was seriously ill after having walked along the galaure (he suffered from muscle rigidities), the ARS and the town suspect massive intoxications “to cyanobacteria “ on canids.
“”Cyanobacteria contamination was detected in our educational pond. This bacteria naturally present in aquatic environments sometimes proliferates when the conditions are favorable (heat, stagnation of water, organic contribution …) “confirms the Town Hall of Laveyron in a Facebook post.
In total, three areas must now be avoided by walkers and their four-legged companions: Saint-Vallier, Saint-Uze and Laveyron.
“Cyanobacteria, sometimes still called” blue algae “(…) are found in fresh and sea waters and can sometimes produce toxins dangerous for human, animal and environmental health, especially during algal flowers”, underlines the ARS Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
In the event of direct contact or ingestion, they can cause irritation, digestive disorders or, in rare cases, more serious complications.
What to do then to protect our four -legged companions? Dr. Gérald Kierzek, medical director of True Medical, drives us.
Swimming: how to prevent his dog from poisoning?
Avoid stagnant waters or disorders
“”Indeed, cyanobacteria develop mainly in warm, shallow and stagnant waters (ponds, ponds, lakes). Also favor areas with a current (rivers) or clear and well oxygenated waters “advises Dr Gérald Kierzek.
Make a cross on swimming in case of doubt
“”If the water has a foam, green/bluish deposits or a suspicious odor, do not let your dog bathe or drink “alerts the doctor. “”Please note, toxins can also be present even if the algae are not visible. “
Rinse your dog after swimming
“If your dog has swam, rinse it with clear water to eliminate possible toxins on his coat, which he could ingest by licking”, advises the medical director of True Medical.
Prevent your dog from drinking water
“”During a walk, always bring a bowl of fresh water to prevent it from drinking in contaminated waters “recommends the medical expert again.
Watch local alerts
“”Finally, consult the municipal decrees or the sites of the regional health agencies (ARS) before going near a body of water “underlines the practitioner.
How to recognize contaminated water?
It is possible to recognize contaminated water to certain visible or noticeable signs.
“An unusual color, like green or blue-green, or the presence of a foam on the surface, similar to paint, can indicate pollution, in particular by algae. An unpleasant odor, recalling mold or earth, is also a sign of alert. Finally, the presence of warning panels on the scene can point out the presence of cyanobacteria or other dangers for health”, warns the medical director of True Medical.
What if your dog has nevertheless drunk contaminated water?
In such a situation, it is essential to act quickly.
“”Monitor the appearance of disturbing symptoms in your animal, such as vomiting, diarrhea, unusual weakness, convulsions or excessive salivation. Cyanobacteria poisoning can be fatal in just a few hours. You must therefore consult a veterinarian without delay “Concludes Dr Gérald Kierzek.