As Las Vegas continues to grapple with its water scarcity challenges the increase in algae blooms in local and surrounding bodies of water is a concern. Algae blooms, which are rapid increases in algae populations in water systems, are not new to the region.  With Spring well underway and algae’s typical ramp-up approaching in July, knowing where to find status updates and understanding how water bodies with algae can impact your pets may save their life.

Year over year reports from local authorities and media reflect an increase in algae concerns and occurrences are projected to continue to worsen in the coming years based on initial research by Southern Nevada Water Authority.  Their studies, related to the impact climate change has on water quality, aligns with many that state harmful algai blooms (HAB) thrive in warm, slow-moving water and typically increase as temperatures increase.  When a bloom occurs if Cyanobacteria is present there’s cause for concern.  Cyanobacteria, the microorganism responsible for many harmful blooms, can release toxins like microcystins and anatoxins. These substances are hazardous to humans but are even more perilous for dogs and children who are more susceptible to these toxins.

If you’re wondering how this could impact your animal as you weigh the risk vs. the reward of a cool dip on a hot day, we’re here to tell you it’s not worth it.  Often within 15 minutes of exposure, dogs who’ve ingested algae experience diarrhea, vomiting, drooling, weakness, disorientation, collapse, seizures, breathing issues and unconsciousness.  Even with prompt access to a veterinarian to flush what they’re able of the toxins, if your pet does not expire from the ingestion, there is a strong chance they’ll have a lasting impact from it.

HAB’s are a concern across the United States, with statistics somewhat difficult to source, annual impacts by states who volunteer (average or 10 – 20 states) information to the CDC report anywhere from 300 to 100K impacted animals annually due to algae exposure.  Efforts to reduce nutrient pollution, enhance water quality monitoring, and provide timely advisories are already underway in the area in efforts to safeguard both human and animal health.  Learn more about the Harmful Algai Bloom Program and HAB’s through these sources.

The Office of Analytics, Department of Health and Human Services offers a harmful Algai Blooms NV Dashboard for you to have access to current status of locations you plan to visit!  Save this link and make sure you know before you go.