Toxic blue-green algae blooms prompt dog owners to keep pets onshore

Fredericton's St. John River normally acts as a natural waterpark for dogs on hot days.

But despite the heat warning this weekend, many pet owners chose to keep their pups away from the river at Carleton Park. The province confirmed on Friday that three dogs in the Fredericton area recently died after coming into contact with blue-green algae, a toxic bloom that can also be harmful to humans.

Two of those dogs died after swimming at Carleton Park. 

• Blue-green algae confirmed as cause of dogs' sudden deaths in Fredericton 
• What you should know about toxic algae blooms if you're heading to the St. John River 
• 3 dogs die suspiciously just days apart after swimming in St. John River

Normally, Michael Murray would be running duck hunting drills with his dogs at the park. 

"I'm not really sure where we can train ... because we usually come down to this river," he said. "It's kind of concerning."

John Grondin echoed Murray's concerns. Even before the recent dog deaths, Grondin made sure to keep his dog, Jake, away from the water. 

"The St. John River isn't known for being clean, and after the flood and everything else that's coming down river you never know," he said.

Being alert

Provincial officials said Friday that neither dogs nor people have to avoid the water completely, but noted they should be watchful for the algae. Signs were posted warning of the toxic blooms. 

Mike McHugh said he's been able to avoid the algae. He runs Rock the Boat River Adventures and he was still giving people rides in his pontoon boat as part of the long weekend celebrations. 

"I've had people swimming all summer out in the river with my business, and no trouble at all because most of the water is moving," said McHugh. "Usually you can spot it pretty easy if it's in the water. It's quite a bright algae."