‘You can see clumps’: Watch out for new toxic algae, deadly for dogs, in Columbia River

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Public health officials are warning the public about a new type of toxic algae in the Columbia River that can be deadly to animals.

This new algae has so far been found along the moving body of water that is the Columbia River, considered an unusual setting compared to where other algae are commonly found.

Officials said at least two dogs died after eating this new form of toxic algae. That’s why public health officials say to be extra cautious as the weather gets warmer.

Dr. Alan Melnick with Clark County Public Health is warning dog owners to be on the lookout for this new form of toxic algae.

“We became aware of this new algae, these benthic mats, basically last fall when we had a dog death after being exposed to these benthic algae mats,” Melnick said.

Melnick said another dog also died after consuming this algae last year.

“They’re found in moving bodies of water,” Melnick said. “And they don’t have the same appearance, they’re actually below the surface. The water will look really clear but underneath there are these mats of algae.”

The mats are usually slimy, smelly and can range in color.

Valurie Kashchenko didn’t even bring her pup fishing with her today.

“I don’t feel comfortable bringing my dog to any body of water right now,” she said. “I mean, you can see clumps of it coming up on the shore. And even the places I go to fish, my line gets tangled up in it, there’s just so much of it, there’s just so much of it, I’m scared if my dog goes out there and ingests it, something bad is going to happen.”

Kashchenko and public health officials have the same advice for people and their pets hitting the Columbia this summer.

“Just be very cautious, if you see any warning signs just watch them very carefully, and it’s always okay to just be extra cautious,” Kashchenko said.

Public health officials also said people could have a reaction to the algae — they get a tingly, burning sensation.

Clark County public health officials said to keep an eye on younger children getting in the water as well. And if a child is suspected of being in contact with the algae, they should see a doctor.