A dog cooling off in the sea in Helsinki. Photo: Vesa Moilanen / Lehtikuva
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Finnish pet insurer LähiTapiola has warned dog owners about the increasing health risks posed by blue-green algae in lakes and coastal waters, as rising summer temperatures accelerate cyanobacteria growth.
According to Anu Kostamo, a claims specialist at LähiTapiola, exposure to blue-green algae, known in Finland as sinilevä, can be fatal to dogs. The bacteria produce toxins that may damage the liver, kidneys, or central nervous system. There is no antidote for cyanobacteria poisoning.
“Prevention is absolutely essential,” Kostamo said. “Dogs must not be allowed to swim in or drink from water that contains visible algae.”
The presence of algae can vary locally, so pet owners are advised to monitor water quality while at summer cottages or on other seasonal trips. Symptoms of poisoning in dogs may include skin reactions, digestive problems, respiratory issues, muscle weakness, or fatigue. Immediate veterinary care is required if algae exposure is suspected.
Owners should also prevent dogs from licking their fur after suspected contact with algae-contaminated water to limit further absorption of toxins.
Beyond the risks from algae, summer conditions also increase cases of skin and ear infections in dogs, especially those that swim frequently. LähiTapiola’s claims data show a clear seasonal rise in reports of paw infections, ear problems, and hot spots, painful, inflamed skin conditions linked to moisture trapped under dense coats.
“Swimming is good exercise for dogs, but warm weather combined with damp fur creates a favourable environment for infections,” Kostamo said. “Careful drying of the coat, skin and ears after swimming helps reduce the risk.”
Early signs of an ear infection include shaking the head, scratching the ears, and unusual discharge or smell. For mild symptoms, swimming should be avoided and ears cleaned with a suitable solution at home.
Hot spots tend to affect dogs with thick coats and can progress rapidly. They appear as red, oozing patches that are often painful. Immediate home care includes trimming the hair around the affected area, cleaning with diluted antiseptic, and applying skin ointments such as honey-based or resin-based salves.
Kostamo advised that protective collars or suits may help prevent dogs from aggravating wounds through licking or scratching.
For dog owners at cottages or travelling, online veterinary consultations are available via LähiTapiola’s LemmikkiHelppi service, which operates daily from 7 am to 11 pm. Skin symptoms are one of the most common reasons clients contact the remote vet platform.
LähiTapiola recommends pet owners carry the following supplies during summer outings:
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Antiseptics like diluted Betadine, skin shampoos, and ointments for treating wounds
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Ear-cleaning solutions for managing mild ear symptoms
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Protective collars or garments to prevent licking
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Basic bandages for covering cuts or scrapes
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An emergency sting kit (kyypakkaus) for allergic reactions, used only under veterinary guidance
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
