Several family pets have died from taking a swim in Moose Lake Alberta.."One of our clients contacted us this morning to let us know that their dog had passed away this weekend from blue-green algae exposure," Animals First Clinic stated on social media. .The clinic is located in Bonnyville, Alberta.."They were in Moose Lake, just outside of Bonnyville this past weekend. Four other dogs that had been on the same shoreline have also passed away.". Blue-green algae is a serious health concern in many parts of Alberta. The clinic stated, "If you see any kind of surface scum, be careful." .The Moose Lake Watershed Society (MLWS) also posted a warning on social media.."BE AWARE!! There have been several reported fatalities of family pets due to contact with blue-green algae/cyanobacteria in Moose Lake. If you see a bloom, do not enter into the water and prevent your pets from coming into contact with the bloom," the MLWS stated.."Cyanobacteria produce several different forms of toxins, some of which are lethal within minutes to others that can bioaccumulate and cause long term damage to vital organs such as kidneys and liver. Contact can also cause severe dermatitis (skin reactions).".The MLWS said despite the name, blue-green algae can be turquoise, green, brown, red, white or mixes of these colours.."Blue-green algae blooms can look like fine grass clippings in the water, spilled paint or pea soup. Sometimes they look like a thick scum on the surface. They often smell musty or grassy when healthy and like ammonia when decomposing.".If you are worried about a lake having blue-green algae, contact AHS at.https://ephisahs.albertahealthservices.ca/create-case/
