15 minutes is all it takes; Missouri vet warns of toxic blue-green algae

(KMOX) — The alert over toxic blue-green algae is spreading after the three dogs died after going for swims.

Toxic blue-green algae can be found all over the U.S. — including Missouri.

OzarksFirst.com spoke with Lynn Milberg, the Water Quality Monitoring Section Chief for Missouri Department of Natural Resources. 

"We’ve had a few reports this year of them. None of them have turned out to last very long at least what was reported to us. So yes they can occur anywhere you have a water body. Typically they are in lakes versus streams just because the lakes are slow-moving, they’ll get warmer as they sit, but it could possibly be in rivers,” Milberg told the outlet.

The term 'blue-green' is a misnomer because the substance, that can look like foam, scum, or a mat on top of the water, can be blue, vibrant green, brown, or even red.

"Blue-green algae are not actually algae, but cyanobacteria," according to MoDNR. "Like algae, these bacteria can 'bloom' when the conditions are right. Cyanobacteria are especially concerning because they are capable of producing toxins that can be harmful, even lethal, to humans, livestock and pets."

University of Missouri Doctor of Veterinarian Medicine Leah Cohn said these algae blooms are common late summer and into early fall. 

"You can see the algae in the pond with your eyes; people aren't used to thinking of that as a danger, but it is highly, highly toxic," Cohn said. "Not every form of algae is toxic, but blue-green algae is highly toxic. Just a very small amount can result in neurologic signs or liver failure."

Dr. Cohn said your dog can become ill in as little as 15 minutes after getting in the blue-green algae or ingesting it. If you know your dog has been exposed, but doesn't have symptoms yet, your doctor can induce vomiting to try to bind up the toxins in the stomach. 

Once a dog shows clinical signs though, care is only supportive, and the prognosis is poor, according to Cohn.

While it may stink, animals can be attracted to it. If you suspect your animal has come into contact you should wash them right away. Seek immediate medical attention if they or you start showing symptoms. Human reaction can range from rash and upset stomach to paralysis and respiratory illness, according to MoDNR.

"When in doubt, stay out!" the organization warns.