Harmful algae which can be fatal to animals have been detected in a pond in north Dorset. 

Stalbridge and Marnhull Veterinary Surgery says it has recently treated a dog that drank from a pond and contracted blue-green algae poisoning – an acute toxicity that can be rapidly fatal.

Blue-green algae live in still surface water such as large lakes, small ponds, and even garden pots and bird baths. They multiply quickly as temperatures rise.

Dogs contract the toxicity by drinking the water or licking it from their coats. The poisons affect the nervous system within half an hour and the liver over the next few days.

Symptoms to look out for are:

  • Trembling
  • Salivation/drooling
  • Laboured noisy breathing
  • Panting
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Weakness
  • Convulsions

The surgery says the faster the signs develop, and the more that are displayed, the more serious the problem is. 

David and Sally Scott, of Stalbridge and Marnhull Veterinary Surgery, said: "If in doubt don’t wait - phone your vet and make an appointment to have your pet seen as soon as possible.

"Remember, the water does not have to look green or blue for it to contain these deadly algae. If in doubt, always wash your dog off after it has had a swim in a body of still water."