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August 15, 2024
From: Maryland Department of Agriculture Animal Safety Alert This notice is to provide an Animal Safety Alert issued by the State for the non-tidal Potomac River due to toxic algal mats. Anatoxin was detected at higher levels than seen before. No animal cases have been reported to date, however, animal contact with algal mats that have washed up on the shoreline should be avoided. These harmful algae are native to the Chesapeake Bay and occur in higher abundances mostly during low flow, high temperatures and when specific nutrient levels are present. Toxic algae mats are currently located in the Potomac River in the area from Edwards Ferry to Great Falls, Montgomery County, below Williamsport to Rileys Lock. These toxins can be quickly absorbed when ingested and are harmful to animals. Potential signs in dogs include tremors, muscle rigidity, paralysis, convulsions, coma, cyanosis, hypersalivation and/or death Dog owners are advised to keep pets on leash, prevent them from eating algal mats (in water or on shore), wash them after being in affected areas, give fresh water to drink and contact your veterinarian if signs are noted. For more information use this link, https://www.cdc.gov/harmful-algal-blooms/about/index.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/habs/pdf/algal_bloom_tall_card.pdf CURBSIDE SERVICE Due to our Fear Free approach to our patients and the continued spread of COVID variants, we kindly ask clients to follow our curbside policy. This means you will be asked to remain in your car with your pet until your exam room is ready.
Gouri Krishna, DVM, Carrie Benton, DVM, and the staff at Silver Spring Animal Hospital |
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