DALLAS – WBAP/KLIF – A Dallas veterinarian warns deadly blue green algae, blamed for dogs dying very quickly in both Austin and Oklahoma, may have already killed or be killing pets in North Texas, as affected pets are often presented dead or near death, and tests are usually not done to determine the cause of death.
Dr. Murphee Stepanek of HIllside Veterinary Clinic on Mockingbird Lane in Dallas says the amount of exposure to the deadly algae does not change the immediacy or seriousness of the illlness. Affected pets may show one or more of these symptoms after exposure to freshwater sources, and even ON LAND as wind blows the algae onto areas beyond the water’s edges:
- Diarrhea or vomiting.
- Drooling.
- Neurologic signs including
- Weakness.
- Disorientation/confusion.
- Collapse/unconsciousness.
- Seizures.
- Breathing difficulties
Dogs are currently reported as having died very quickly after contact with tainted waters in both Austin and in the state of Oklahoma. Dr. Stepanek suggests it is cautious to assume the deadly algae, whether you can see it or not, could be affecting North Texas fresh water sources as well.
Dr. Stepanek warns pet owners the algae contact can occur even NEAR freshwater sources, as algae is usually present on land near these waterways as well. Blue green algae grows very quickly in this hot weather; North Texas remains under a heat advisory through at least Sunday.
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