Dogs are man’s best friend, and if there is anything that South Dakotans love, it is our four-legged friends! Fortunately, South Dakota is typically a dog-friendly state, and canine owners have the opportunity to bring their pets with them to parks, downtown areas, and even some restaurants. This being said, dog owners want to keep these loyal family members as safe and healthy as possible, which is why you need to be aware of the toxic blue-green algae that can threaten their lives (and your health):

On August 1, 2019, South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks issued a press release regarding toxic blue-green algae that have been found in local ponds and lakes, which can be harmful to both dogs and humans.
Flickr/Mark Sadowski
According to the South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks regional fisheries manager Mark Ermer, these algae blooms happen every year when it gets hot and that "It’s nearly impossible to tell if algae in a pond or lake are poisonous or not, so we recommend not letting dogs swim in a body of water that has a visible layer of thick, floating algae on the surface. Even one drink of water that has a blue-green algae bloom can be fatal for dogs."
Flickr/Michael Button
Sadly, this was the case for a Lake Madison family (as well as other families in other states), whose otherwise healthy dog ingested algae and died 36 hours later.
Flickr/Steve @ the alligator farm

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What are blue-green algae (Cyanobacteria)? These fungi are a type of bacteria caused by a combination of certain nutrients in the water, warm temperatures, and sunlight, which combine to form the toxin microcystin.
Flickr/Dave Thomas
Once the bacteria is formed, it becomes a distinct green color, which can serve as a warning sign to humans to not go near it or let their animals near the water.
Flickr/Rusty Clark ~ 100K Photos
Fortunately, rain and cooler temperatures will flush out the algae, but in the meantime be sure to be diligent and aware of any algae blooms in your local lake.
Flickr/Jon. D. Anderson

If you think that either you or your pet have come into contact with blue-green algae, South Dakota Assistant State Veterinarian Mendel Miller recommends contacting your doctor or veterinarian immediately. In addition to contacting a health provider, the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources also requests that you report any sightings to them by calling (605) 773-4729.

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