AUSTIN, Texas — Officials are urging people to keep their pets out of Lake Travis after reports of a dog dying.
The Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) reports that a dog died after swimming in Lake Travis near Point Venture.
Officials with the LCRA said they took samples from the area, but that test results won't be available for several days.
In the meantime, if you plan on bringing pets out to the lake, especially near Point Venture, you're urged to keep them out of the water. Officials also say to avoid contact with all algae, which can produce dangerous cyanotoxins at any time.
How to minimize the risk of exposure
Humans, pets and livestock that interact with harmful algae can become sick, and extreme cases can cause paralysis or death. The LCRA says people who enter the water do so at their own risk, but there are tips to keep pets safe:
- Avoid areas with algae or that are stagnant
- Don't let dogs consume lake water or other shoreline debris
- Don't let dogs lick their fur and or paws after getting out of the water
- Rinse your dog after they come in contact with the lake
- Provide dogs with clean, fresh drinking water
- If your dog appears sick after swimming, take them to the vet immediately
Treating dogs after exposure
The Canine Health Center at Cornell says the two most dangerous toxins affect the nervous system and the liver. They also say signs can develop within several hours.
While there is no specific antidote for cyanotoxins, treatments may include IV fluids, oxygen, anti-seizure medicine, electrolytes and glucose, and blood or fresh frozen plasma.