Prospect Park Lake's Dog-Poisoning Algae Is Back for Summer

Pictured: Prospect Park Lake. Image via Google Maps

PROSPECT PARK, BROOKLYN — The temporary closure of Dog Beach isn't the only thing keeping your pet out of Prospect Park Lake.

Just like last year, there's "widespread" blue-green algae in the water this summer, according to the state's Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).

Testing done on July 6 by the DEC found high levels of toxic algae throughout the lake — the only body of water in Brooklyn to test positive for the microbial menace.

According to the DEC, both people and pets are susceptible to the effects of "harmful algae blooms," or HABs.

Human symptoms of exposure include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, as well as irritated skin and throats and "asthma-like breathing difficulties."

Algae can also attach itself to pet fur and get into an animal's system when they clean themselves, the DEC says. Symptoms include stumbling and convulsions, "excessive" drooling and salivation, disorientation, an elevated heart rate, and strained breathing.

The Prospect Park Alliance, in charge of park affairs, couldn't immediately be reached for comment Tuesday about the algae bloom.

Last year, veterinarian Chris Gaylord, who heads North Slope Veterinary in Park Slope, told Patch he'd keep his own dog out of the water during an algae outbreak.

According to Gaylord, while dogs rarely get sick from algae, “if they do get sick, they get really, really sick. Dogs die from it.”

The vet also told Brooklyn Bark what dog owners should do if they fear their pet has been exposed:

If you have any reason to suspect that your dog has been exposed you should wash them thoroughly with soap and fresh water. Wear gloves. Prevent them from licking their fur or grooming. If your dog shows any signs...you should seek veterinary care immediately. Dogs are quite sensitive to the toxins produced by this algae and consumption can result in death