Dog owners in Norfolk warned of toxic algae in water

Blue-green algae describes a group of bacteria, called cyanobacteria, which can collect together, posing a risk to dogs.

It can often resemble foam at the edge of lakes or ponds, where the water does not flow and rainfall is less frequent, which allows bacteria to build up.

It has been found in the Norfolk Broads in recent years (Image: Denise Bradley)

There could be dead fish in ponds and lakes that have a high concentration of toxic bacteria and dog owners should not let their pets drink from it. 

Rosie Smith, from The Veterinary Surgery in Hempnall, said: "Blue-green algae poisoning is often serious and usually fatal with death occurring between one and 12 hours of ingestion.

"We would always advise owners who think their pet has been exposed to blue-green algae to take it to their vet immediately.

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"Unfortunately, once dogs start showing symptoms the prognosis is very poor.

"Any still body of water can be affected and the presence of the blue-green algae is often hard to spot.

"In the past, I have seen helpful signs at Whitlingham Lane in Norwich alerting people when it is present, but obviously this is unlikely to be the case for most lakes, so the absence of a warning sign doesn't mean the water is safe."

Stock image of blue-green algae (Image: PA)

Other signs of the presence of blue-green algae include green flakes, brown dots and greenish bundles in the water. 

A spokesman from the Environment Agency added: "The Environment Agency responds to reports of blue-green algal blooms.

"Where it is confirmed, we will take samples to establish whether concentrations are above the toxic threshold.

"We will notify landowners and local authorities who are responsible for erecting signage."