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Currently no blue-green algae found at Boysen

As we watch more reports coming in daily about pets dying after playing in or being exposed to lake water contaminated with blue-green algae, folks are starting to wonder if its still safe to take our furry friends to the lake.

According to the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, as of Monday, there are only four lakes in Wyoming reporting the blue-green algae contamination, Eden Reservoir in Sweetwater County, Toltec Reservoir in Albany County, Leaszenby Lake, also in Albany County and Woodruff Narrows Reservoir in Unita County.

Two dogs died recently after swimming at Leaszenby.

Although Boysen Reservoir is not contaminated at this time, it is good to know what the symptoms are if your pet comes in contact with cyanobacteria.

If your pet exhibits excessive drooling, vomiting, fatigue, staggered walking, difficulty breathing or convulsions after being in the water, drinking it or licking it from their fur, get to the veterinarian immediately.

These symptoms can quickly lead to liver failure or death, even if they don’t appear for several hours or even days after exposure.

People aren’t immune, either. Symptoms in humans include skin, eye, nose or throat irritation, abdominal pain, headache, neurological symptoms, vomiting or diarrhea, and in some cases can lead to liver or kidney damage.

If you or your pet have any of these symptoms after being in the water, please be sure to contact the Department of Health.

 

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