Algae Toxins In Venice Canals Put Pets At Risk: What To Know
Curious about the sudden dog illnesses around the Venice Canals in Los Angeles? Neighbors sounded the alarm after healthy pets collapsed or seized within hours of canal walks. County testing now shows toxins produced by algae in water, algae, and surface scum. Officials have not proven that the toxins caused every case, but they urge strict caution for people and pets.
What’s Confirmed So Far
Los Angeles County Public Health says 26 suspected canine illness cases have been logged, including five deaths, with the latest starting July 30. Community reports suggest as many as seven deaths. Symptoms in dogs include sudden lethargy, weakness, loss of coordination, vomiting, tremors, and seizures. (ABC7 Los Angeles)
The State Water Resources Control Board tested canal samples and found algae toxins. Health officials stress that a definitive link to the illnesses is still under investigation. Warning signs are posted around affected areas while the probe continues.
Guidance for Families and Pet Owners
Public Health recommends staying out of canal water, keeping pets away from scum, foam, or cloudy water, and never letting pets drink from the canals. Do not use canal water for cooking or drinking. Skip eating shellfish from the canals. If fishing, discard guts, rinse fillets with clean, fresh water, and wash hands, tools, and surfaces. When uncertain, avoid the catch.
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Health Effects to Watch
For people, algae toxins can trigger skin rashes, eye irritation, diarrhea, and vomiting. For animals, reported effects include vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, convulsions, and, in severe cases, death. Seek immediate veterinary care if a pet shows neurological signs after a canal visit.
Bigger Picture on California’s Coast
Southern California has faced a powerful, harmful algal bloom this year that sickened or killed sea lions and dolphins across multiple counties. Scientists identified domoic acid as a key toxin during that coastal event. Local outlets and agencies called it one of the most severe blooms on record for the region.
What neighbors reported
Local coverage documented clusters of cases within days, with young, otherwise healthy dogs affected after ordinary walks near the canals. That pattern pushed officials to escalate testing and outreach while considering other possibilities, such as rodent poison or unrelated toxins present near the water.
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Practical Steps this Week
Plan alternate dog-walk routes away from the canals. Carry fresh water and a bowl so pets do not drink from outdoor sources. Avoid throwing balls or toys near canal edges where dogs might jump in. Report sick pets to your veterinarian and notify Public Health to support the investigation.
Our Opinion
Pet communities rally fast when something feels off, and that instinct saves lives. Until experts close the loop on the cause, the safest move is distance from the canals, quick action on any symptoms, and neighbor-to-neighbor updates. Venice is a special place for dogs and their people; careful choices now protect that joy for later.
