DEFIANCE, Mo. — The dog park in Defiance's Broemmelsiek Park has closed indefinitely after blue-green algae was found in the water, St. Charles County Parks announced on Monday.
According to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, harmful algal blooms (HABs) caused by blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, produce toxins that can make people and animals sick if they come into contact with or consume polluted water or consume tainted fish or shellfish.
The HABs thrive in warm, slow-moving water like lakes and ponds, and they typically occur when the water temperature is warmer, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The St. Louis region's ongoing heat wave and resulting warmer water temperatures allow the HABs to grow faster.
Recognizing blue-green algae
According to the DNR, contaminated water typically has a thick foam or scum on its surface and a blue-green color that may look like pea soup or as if paint had been spilled in the water.
Signs of cyanobacteria poisoning
For dogs who drink from or even swim in the contaminated water, severe neurologic or liver damage can occur, according to the ASPCA. Signs of blue-green algae poisoning among pets include:
- Seizures.
- Panting.
- Excessive drooling.
- Respiratory failure.
- Diarrhea.
- Disorientation.
- Vomiting.
- Liver failure.
- Ultimately death.
If your pet shows any of these symptoms, you should contact a veterinarian immediately.
To watch 5 On Your Side broadcasts or reports 24/7, 5 On Your Side is always streaming on 5+. Download for free on Roku, Amazon Fire TV or the Apple TV App Store.