Summer safety

Learn about toxic things in the environment and how to keep your pets safe during the summer months.

There are many types of algae that can grow in waterways throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. It’s important to know which algae can be harmful to people and dogs, so we can enjoy our waterways safely during summer.

Toxic algae (also called cyanobacteria) can make animals extremely sick when ingested. Unfortunately, dogs love its musty smell and will often try to investigate, lick or eat toxic algae when out walking near rivers and lakes.

If you walk your dog near ponds, lakes or rivers, remember to look out for:

black, green or brown slime on rocks
brown or black "mats" with a leathery texture and musty smell at the edge of rivers
lake water that is discoloured, cloudy or has small green blobs suspended in it

Always keep a close eye on your dog when out enjoying freshwater sites like rivers, lakes, ponds or lagoons. Don't let them swim in or drink the water, and wash them immediately if they have been in the water. Try not to let them lick their cotas.

If you think there's toxic algae in your area, keep your dog on a leash and away from the water.

Symptoms of toxic algae poisoning in dogs include panting, lethargy, muscle tremors, twitching and convulsions. If your dog is showing any of these symptoms after being in contact with a waterway, contact your vet immediately.

Symptoms can develop within 30 minutes of eating toxic algae and it only takes a small piece for dogs to become unwell.

Read Greater Wellington Regional Council's fact sheet on toxic algae

Karaka berries can be toxic to humans, dogs, rats, kiwi, chickens, pigeons, sheep, cattle and rabbits. Dogs are particularly sensitive to the berries and vets often see cases of karaka poisoning in dogs from January to April each year.

All parts of the berry can be toxic but the kernels contain the largest concentration of the toxin.

Symptoms of karaka poisoning include:

Vomiting or diarrhoea
Abdominal pain
Reduced appetite
Paralysis of back legs
Loss of balance
Convulsions
Breathing slower than usual (which can lead to paralysis of breathing muscles)

Please remember to keep your dog on a leash if you're walking them near karaka trees, and keep a close eye on them to make sure they don't eat any fallen berries! If you think your dog has eaten any karaka berries, please contact your vet immediately. Early intervention can save lives.