Health warning over toxic algae renewed at Russian River

GUERNVILLE, Calif. (KTVU) -- As thousands are expected to spend the upcoming Labor Day weekend at the Russian River, a renewed health warning over toxic algae is urging pet owners to keep their dogs away from the river.

A dog died recently after swimming in the Russian River and authorities found traces of toxic blue-green algae in its system.

The death prompted the posting of new warning signs.

"We'll be more cautious and it loses the fun level a little bit," said one visitor from Berkeley.

The dog affected by the algae, a golden retriever, died shortly after swimming in the river last week. Tests confirmed levels of Anatoxin-a, which is found in blue-green algae.

The Sonoma County health department has now issued a new advisory to pet owners to keep their dogs off the river completely, including boats.

"This is new to the area. I've never run into a blue-green algae bloom before," said Guerneville veterinarian John Fitzpatrick.

Fitzpatrick has seen two dogs recently stricken by the toxic algae. The dogs survived.

"It was losing hair on all four limbs and feet. The other dog got into a stagnant area, drank the water and began vomiting," said Fitzpatrick.

A Sonoma County Health official told KTVU by phone no humans have been reported sick from the algae.

Health officials faced the dilemma of possibly having to close the beaches over busy Labor Day weekend, but they say that's unnecessary.

They do advise keeping small children away from where the algae collects.

Businesses along the Russian River say they don't believe the algae will keep people from coming for the long weekend.

"Historically, Labor Day weekend is huge at the Russian River. The weather is supposed to be beautiful, so I expect we'll have a few busy days ahead of us," said Johnson's Beach Boathouse owner Annie Boutelle.

But visitors will likely see fewer dogs.

The Department of Health Services issued a previous warning about blue-green algae on Aug. 21, but the golden retriever's death has heightened the alert. Some social media sites are claiming three dogs have died from exposure from the toxin in blue-green algae.

The Department of Health Services said it's the first time blue-green algae has been found in the Russian River.

The Department of Health Services is asking veterinarians to report sick animals who were exposed to algae by calling (707) 565-4567 or 4566.

The public may call the Health Services beach hotline at (707) 565-6565 or 6552.