Cyanobacteria (aka blue-green algae) blooms have been reported at three lakes and one river, and you’ll want to keep your dog far away from them right now. One dog in Oregon has already died from exposure to this deadly toxic algae.

Some dogs just can't get enough of the water. They love to jump right in and go for a swim on a hot, summer day. Typically, that's a great way for them to cool off and get some exercise, but right now there are some places in Oregon where it's not safe for your dog to swim.
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Cyanobacteria (aka blue-green algae) blooms occur when the water temperature rises, or there's an excessive amount of phosphorus present. These blooms have been happening for hundreds of years, but seem to be increasing with rising temperatures and run-off that contains fertilizer.
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Several agencies around Oregon take water samples to test for toxic algae. Not all lakes and rivers are tested, though, so you'll want to check out any lakes, ponds, or rivers where you and your dog want to swim and play.
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Blue-green algae can appear sludgy and soupy, or look like paint. The algae can also change rapidly; some algae that tests fine one day could be toxic the very next day.
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Exposure to toxic algae causes some serious side effects in both humans and animals. Skin rashes, nausea, vomiting, and trouble breathing are symptoms that you may have been exposed. The toxins can also cause liver and nervous system damage.
USEPA photo by Eric Vance, Public Domain/Wikimedia
The most serious side effects are caused by swallowing large amounts of water, which is why dogs tend to get much sicker than humans. One dog has already died in Oregon this year while swimming in the river at Keizer Park.
If you suspect that your dog has been exposed to toxic algae, get him to a veterinarian quickly.
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Symptoms usually appear within an hour of swimming in water that has toxic algae. They include excessive drooling, muscle tremors, and difficulty breathing.
Not all algae is toxic, and unfortunately, it's impossible to tell just by looking at it. To be safe, if you see algae, stay out of the water.
Stefe/flickr
The Oregon Health Authority currently has advisories on three lakes and one river: Cullaby Lake and Upper Klamath Lake both have recreational advisories, and Lake Billy Chinook has a precautionary seasonal advisory. South Upqua River has a permanent advisory in place.

Remember that only a tiny portion of Oregon's waterways are tested. The Oregon Health Authority advises, "A water body with no recreational health advisory is not an indication that a bloom is not present. You are your own best advocate when ensuring your safety, and that of your family and pets. Be aware and "when in doubt, stay out."

For more information about toxic blue-green algae and the alerts in place, visit the Oregon Health Authority’s website. Have you seen this algae in other places around the state? Let our readers know in the comments!

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