Blue-Green Algae in Colorado: What Pet Owners Need to Know

Shaela Pizzulo
Aug 4
3 min read

Taking An In-Depth Look At Blue-Green Algae In Colorado, Its Risks For Pets And People, And How To Stay Safe During Outdoor Water Activities This Summer

As pet lovers and professional caretakers at Care Fur Pawz, we know firsthand the importance of keeping your furry family members safe during outdoor adventures. Summer in Colorado brings many joys including sunshine, hiking, and trips to local lakes and reservoirs. But with warmth and water also comes a hidden threat: toxic blue-green algae.

What is Blue-Green Algae?

Blue-green algae, more accurately called cyanobacteria, are microorganisms that thrive in warm, nutrient-rich waters. During the hotter summer months, especially after rainfall or in still water, cyanobacteria can multiply rapidly, forming thick, greenish mats or scummy layers on the surface of lakes, ponds, and reservoirs. These blooms are not only unsightly but can be seriously dangerous.

Why is Blue-Green Algae Dangerous?

Certain strains of blue-green algae produce potent toxins known as cyanotoxins. These toxins can be harmful, or even fatal, to both humans and pets, especially dogs, who are more likely to swim, drink, or even lick the algae off their fur.

Health Risks for Dogs:

Rapid Onset of Symptoms: Dogs are extremely vulnerable to blue-green algae toxins, which can be absorbed through the mouth or skin. Symptoms can appear within minutes to a few hours and may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, weakness, seizures, difficulty breathing, or even sudden death in severe cases.
High Exposure Risk: Dogs are more likely to play fetch, swim, or drink from contaminated waters, putting them at significant risk.
No Antidote: There is no antidote for blue-green algae poisoning; immediate veterinarian care is the only chance for survival, and time is critical.

Health Risks for People:

Skin Irritation: Simply swimming in contaminated water can cause rashes, blisters, or other skin issues.
Serious Illness: Ingesting contaminated water, even accidentally, can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory issues, and in rare cases, liver damage or neurological symptoms.
Children at Risk: Young children, who may swallow water while playing, are especially at risk.

What to Look For: Signs of a Toxic Algae Bloom

Water that looks green, blue, or brown and resembles pea soup or paint.
Surface scum, foam, or mats of algae accumulating near the shore.
Foul, musty, or rotten odor coming from the water.

How to Protect Your Family and Pets

Avoid Contact: Stay away from any water that looks discolored, cloudy, or has visible algae on the surface.
Obey Warning Signs: Always heed posted warnings about algae blooms at local parks, lakes, and reservoirs.
No Swimming or Drinking: Don’t allow dogs (or people) to swim, wade, or drink from suspicious bodies of water.
Wash Immediately: If you or your pet comes into contact with suspect water, rinse off with clean, fresh water as soon as possible.
Report Blooms: Notify local authorities if you spot an algae bloom in a public water area.

Local Impact in Colorado

Colorado has seen a growing number of blue-green algae outbreaks in recent years, including in nearby Aurora Reservoir and other popular recreation spots. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment regularly tests public lakes and posts advisories during algae bloom events.

Making Pet Safety A Priority

At Care Fur Pawz, your pets’ safety is our highest priority. Always be vigilant when out exploring Colorado’s beautiful water spots, especially during the heat of summer. If you suspect your pet has been exposed to toxic algae, seek veterinary care immediately. Quick action can save lives. Stay safe, and let’s continue to enjoy the beautiful outdoors responsibly!

Hire A Professional Dog Walker & Pet Sitter This Summer!

Looking for a pet sitter or dog walker? Then, look no further than Care Fur Pawz convenient and reliable pet care. We are an in-home pet sitting and dog walking business located in the Aurora, Colorado area. We offer a wide variety of in-home pet sitting, dog walking, and dog training services.

For more information about our pet sitting & dog walking services, check out our website by clicking here or give us a call at 720-500-7299. We look forward to meeting you and your furry friends!