DOG owners have been urged to be on their guard this summer over blue green algae which can be fatal to animals.

Blue green algae blooms may appear as green or greenish-brown scum on the surface of water and can contain toxins that can be harmful for animals if ingested, even in small quantities.

Dogs can swallow the algae by drinking water from an affected lake, river or pond or while licking their fur after going for a swim.

Symptoms of exposure can appear within a few minutes or hours.

They can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, disorientation, trouble breathing, seizures and blood in faeces.

If left untreated, it can cause liver damage and ultimately be fatal within days.

The presence of blue green algae has been confirmed in water bodies in Scotland, Wales, the Lake District, North Lincolnshire and East Northamptonshire.

The Environment Agency said they were aware a member of the public had claimed their dog had become ill after swimming in the River Yeo near Sherborne.

A spokesperson said they had not received any reports of blue green algae on the River Yeo.

They added: “Anyone suspecting the presence of blue green algae is welcome to submit photos of the algae to the EA for identification. Some brightly coloured algae are harmless and are often mistaken for blue green species.

“Where blue green algae is present, the EA will notify the landowner and local authority so that signs can be put up warning people to avoid coming into contact with the algae and not to allow their dogs to enter the water.”

In May, the Daily Echo reported that harmful algae had been detected in a pond in North Dorset.

Stalbridge and Marnhull Veterinary Surgery said it had treated a dog that contracted blue-green algae poisoning after drinking from a pond.

Top tips to keep your dog safe:

• Look out for any warning signs put up by the local council near water bodies.

• Keep pets on a lead and by your side around water bodies known or suspected to have blue green algal bloom – don’t let them swim in it or drink from it.

• If your dog has been swimming outside, wash it thoroughly with clean water afterwards.

• Rush your pet to a vet immediately in case you’re concerned it may have ingested toxic algae. There is currently no known antidote for the toxins, so prompt treatment is essential to ensure that your pet has a good chance of recovery.