Maple Grove residents, it's time to keep a close eye on Rice Lake. The serene waters might just be harboring a potentially harmful algae bloom, or HAB, as announced by the City of Maple Grove, MN - Local Government, in a recent social media update. These blue-green algae, scientifically coined as cyanobacteria, are not your garden-variety pond scum. Indeed, they're a bit of a fixture in Minnesota bodies of water, especially when the sun's out and the nutrients are abundant.
Here's the kicker, though: some blue-green algae can churn out toxins that are no friends to humans and animals alike. "You can get sick if you: Swallow, have skin contact with, or breathe in airborne droplets while swimming, boating, waterskiing, tubing, bathing, or showering in water that has harmful algae," the advisory reads, serving up a warning for aquatic recreation enthusiasts. Symptoms, which include the unpleasant lineup of vomiting, diarrhea, rash, eye irritation, cough, sore throat, and headache, can show up within a few hours or take up to two days to show themselves.
It's a real dog's life for our furry friends who don't discriminate against algae-infested waters when it comes to taking a dip or quenching their thirst. In fact, their size and tendency to gulp down more lake water make them especially susceptible, the local government cautions. Your canine pal could also accidentally ingest algae while trying to clean up post-swim when they lick their fur, adding licking to the long list of doggy no-nos alongside chocolate, and, well, swimming in green, stinky water.
To prevent your pet from the risks associated with harmful algae exposure, it is essential to follow the city's guidelines. "Do not let them swim or drink where there is visible algae in the water or scum along the shore," advises the local government post. And, if Spot just can't keep away from the wet stuff, give them a good rinse with fresh water immediately after their aquatic adventures – and keep their tongue away from their fur. Wise moves for ensuring that your four-legged companions stay healthy and happy, even as the bloom looms.
