Dog owners in Basingstoke are being urged to keep their pets out of the canal as warmer weather increases the risk of toxic blue-green algae. The Basingstoke Canal Society has issued the warning despite there being no confirmed sightings on the waterway so far this year. The Basingstoke Canal Society said: “As the weather improves and the canal water warms up we would recommend that all owners refrain from letting their dogs into the Basingstoke Canal.” The move follows a national rise in reports of the potentially fatal bacteria.
Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, is not always visible to the naked eye but can produce toxins that cause rapid liver failure in dogs. Sean McCormack, Head Vet at Tails.com, explained that it is fundamentally different from common green algae. Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, lack of appetite, diarrhoea, seizures, collapse, confusion, excessive drooling and difficulty breathing. There is no antidote, and owners who suspect their dog has swallowed contaminated water are told to contact a vet immediately. “The sooner that your pet is able to receive treatment, the less likely they are to experience long-term implications,” Mr McCormack said.
The Basingstoke Canal Society has reminded visitors that swimming is banned in the canal year-round because of Weil’s Disease and boat hazards. Barbecues and open fires are also prohibited to reduce wildfire risk. The 60-year-old waterway runs from Woking to Odiham and attracts walkers, cyclists and paddleboarders, having been voted the 13th best paddleboarding destination in the world. The Society operates boat trips and is asking dog owners to consider alternative swimming spots such as dog-friendly lidos or pools this summer.
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