LifestyleGoing outAnimalsThe warm weather means it's the perfect time to get out and about, but vets are urging dog owners to stay alert.11:49, 13 Jul 2026With temperatures soaring across the UK this week, it's the perfect time to head to the beach or the lake for a day of sun and swimming. A day spent dipping in and out of the water is fun for the whole family, but veterinarians are urging Brits to keep an eye on their dogs this summer.‌Dr Rhian Littlehales, the clinical governance director at Medivet & Partners, is warning dog owners to make sure they know what their dogs are eating. At lakes there is one kind of algae that can make your dogs very sick.‌She said: "Blue-green algae is a type of bacteria that clumps together in bodies of standing freshwater like lakes and can be extremely harmful to dogs.‌"The algae produce harmful toxins which can affect your pet’s liver or cause neurological signs if ingested."Exposure to this is often fatal and can cause long-term health problems in pets, even if they survive. By drinking from or swimming in contaminated water, pets are at a very high risk of becoming seriously ill and must be taken to a vet immediately.‌"Keep dogs well away from any lakes or ponds that you know or suspect to be contaminated."Providing an alternative water source, like a travel water bowl, for dogs on walks can help prevent them from drinking from contaminated lakes or ponds.”Symptoms of algae poisoning in dogsVomiting/being sickDiarrhoeaSeizures/fittingWeakness/collapse/unconsciousnessDisorientation/confusionExcessive droolingBreathing difficulties‌If your dog starts to show any of these signs it’s important to see a vet straight away.You also need to keep an eye on your dog if they are swimming in a new place.‌Dr Rhian said: "If it’s the first time that your dog will be playing in or around water, make sure they start out in very shallow water, so you can help if needed. If you’re at the beach, monitor your dog to make sure the tide doesn’t pull them away."If your dog gets into trouble in the water and starts to struggle, contact a lifeguard immediately.Dr Rhian said: "Remember that there are risks of jumping into water to save your dog, including cold water shock, and your dog can pull you underwater if they're struggling and scrambling for air.Article continues below"As soon as a dog is safely on shore, they should be taken to a nearby vet for a check-up."And if you are taking your dog to the beach, make sure they are not drinking too much seawater. The high salt content can make them very sick.It’s a good idea to instead offer them fresh water before they get in the water to make sure they’re not tempted to drink seawater.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌AnimalsDogsWeatherHeatwave