July News
We’re continuing with some warm weather topics that we’ve shared long ago and feel they’re worth a reminder to help ensure summer stays fun.
Blue-Green Algae & Dogs
Protect Your Doodle from Toxic Water This Summer
Summer is the perfect time for hikes and a quick dip in a calm pond. There's a hidden danger that every dog owner should know about: blue-green algae. The deadly bacteria appear every summer in the ponds near our house.
What Is Blue-Green Algae?
Blue-green algae are extremely harmful cyanobacteria that grow in warm, nutrient-rich water. You'll find it in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers during hot, still summer months.
How to Recognize Blue-Green Algae Blooms
Water that looks like pea soup
Green, blue-green, or brown scum floating on the surface
Paint-like streaks or mats of algae near the shore
Strong, musty, or foul odors
Warning signs are posted nearby (always obey them!)
Blue-green algae can be present even if you can't see a dense bloom.
Ingestion can occur when:
A dog drinks from a contaminated body of water
Licks their fur after swimming
Inhales droplets or mist near the bloom
Symptoms may begin within minutes to a few hours and include:
Excessive drooling
Vomiting or diarrhea
Weakness or staggering
Seizures or tremors
Difficulty breathing
Unresponsiveness or collapse
What to Do If You Suspect Ingestion
Do not let your dog continue to swim, drink, or lick themselves.
Rinse your dog thoroughly with clean, fresh water.
Focus on the paws, belly, and any areas they may lick.
Call your veterinarian or an emergency vet immediately.
Let them know your dog may have been exposed to blue-green algae.
Do not wait for symptoms to appear.
Quick action can save your dog's life. Take a sample and photos of the water to show the vet.
Prevention Is Key
Avoid stagnant water, especially in warm weather.
Carry fresh water and a collapsible bowl when hiking or traveling.
Summer Fun for Your Doodles
Some things my dogs are enjoying this summer.
Buddie Budder offers a variety of natural flavors, with no added sugar.
Cool Pet Pad. I slipped this inside a dog bed, and Max loves it. It keeps him off the a/c vent.
Chuck-it Air Balls - I prefer these to tennis balls due to the air flow.
Freeze-dried liver: I hold my nose and wash my hands twice. Of course, the dogs all LOVE these one-ingredient treats.
Water Pad - the puppies and young dogs love this!
Rubbermaid 50 gallon stock tank. For ease of drainage, I prefer this to a wading pool. Mine has lasted 20 years so far.
One additional treat that I give my dogs is knuckle bones or knee caps. They love them, and I suffer through the gnawing for them. The rough edges clean their teeth, and because they don’t splinter, I’m comfortable allowing them to chew away. I monitor the dogs with any chew toys and toss them before the largest dog can swallow them.
On the plus side, the dogs don’t have any tartar on their teeth.
Nursery News
There isn’t a lot to share. We have one fabulous male sproodle waiting for the perfect family. We hope to have August breedings for December puppies.
