While summer is a great time to have fun in and around New Zealand’s beaches, lakes, rivers and creeks, it also presents a range of hazards pet owners should be cautious of. Pets are completely reliant on their owners for their safety, so it’s your role to look out for dangers before they happen.

Be it toxic algae, poisonous sea creatures, sand ingestion, rip tides, underwater snag risks or something else – there are several safety measures to consider if you’re taking Fido or Felix to the water this summer, says PD Insurance Chief Operating Officer, Michelle Le Long.

“The key message is we can all have a blast around water but must know how to tread carefully.”

Ingestion risks

Over 2023, poison ingestion ranked sixth in PD Insurance’s list of top 10 dog insurance claims. “The average claim for poison ingestion by dogs in 2023 was $775, but our highest claim payout was $9,049,” says Le Long.

“You need to be just as aware of the potential for your dog or cat to gobble something poisonous at the beach, river, creek or lake as you need to be at home. Even a neighbourhood stormwater drain, pond or park poses risks,” she adds.

“This includes toxic algae, sea slugs, jellyfish, blue bottles, katipo spiders, wasps and bees. These hazards can lead to swelling, breathing difficulties and more; they can even be fatal.”

Toxic algae

Some bodies of water, like lakes, creeks and dams, can have toxic blue-green algae blooms that are highly dangerous if swallowed by pets. It appears as thick dark brown or black mats with a slimy or velvety texture and musty smell. Ingesting the algae can lead to vomiting, seizures, lethargy, breathing difficulties, and even death.

Toxic algae poisoning signs may occur from 15 to 30 minutes after ingestion, and a piece the size of a 50c coin is enough to kill a dog. Dogs are most at risk as they like the musty smell and taste of dried toxic algae. They’re most susceptible when mats wash up at the river edges.

Sadly, it’s not uncommon for blue-green algae poisoning to eventually cause fatal liver failure, so best get your pet to a vet ASAP if you suspect they’ve consumed the algae or drunk water with algae in it. Toxic algae exposure can also cause long term health problems in dogs that survive.

Prevention is key

Preventing your dog from eating toxic algae is crucial. Le Long offers several tips for pet parents:

• Avoid contaminated areas: look for posted warnings on the news or social media.
• Take fresh drinking water: don’t allow your dog to drink from rivers, lakes or any other potentially contaminated water sources.
• Keep your dog on a lead: be present in supervising their behaviour closely. Harmful algae may not always be visible. Keeping your dog on a lead prevents them from exploring concealed areas where toxic algae may exist.
• Rinse after swimming: to ensure potential toxins are removed from your dog’s coat.
• Watch for any signs and symptoms: vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, weakness, difficulty breathing, seizures, and more.
• Seek immediate medical attention: If you suspect your dog has ingested toxic algae, get your pet to a vet ASAP.

Saltwater and sand risks

Pet safety around waterways includes ensuring they’re not gobbling up sand or taking in too much salty water. This usually happens when your pet scoops up sand / water while grabbing toys or a ball on the beach or in the water.

Saltwater will dehydrate your dog or cat, leading to cramps, vomiting, and nausea. Too much sand – called sand impaction – can cause blockages in their abdominal system, leading to pain and needing urgent treatment to help pass the blockage.

Also, be aware that pets who’ve had a near-drowning situation at the beach or another waterway can still suffer from secondary drowning, just like us humans. This can occur up to three days after.

Fishhooks and litter

Fishhooks, lines, and other litter can seriously harm your pets. Always supervise your pet near areas where litter or fishing activities may be present.

“If you see discarded fishing gear, it’s a good idea to report it or safely remove it yourself if you can do so without risking injury,” says Le Long.

If your dog is off leash, make sure they have good recall and stay close to you to minimise their chances of getting into trouble. Teach them the “leave it” command to help prevent them from picking up or trying to eat dangerous items.

Despite being clued up on pet safety around bodies of water and taking every precaution, accidents can still happen. Keep the Animal Poisons Helpline number on your phone and call them if something happens: 0800 869 738. The service is free for all pet owners.

“Make sure your vet is on speed dial too,” concludes Le Long.

Media contact 

Leandri Smith – The Mail Room 
027 365 9003 | [email protected]