Vets are urging people to make sure their pets stay safe when out for walks after eight dogs died from suspected poisoning.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) is asking owners to remain vigilant near freshwater bodies this summer, as the warm weather brings with it an increased risk of toxic blue-green algae growth. Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, is a group of bacteria that can contain dangerous toxins which can be harmful and potentially fatal to pets, livestock and birds if ingested even in small quantities.
The algae may appear as green or greenish-brown scum on the surface of water like lakes and ponds. Dogs can swallow it by drinking water from an affected lake, river or pond or while licking their fur after going for a swim.
