Beloved Dachshund Dies After Suspected Blue-Green Algae Exposure at Lake Ginninderra, Family Issues Urgent Warning
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A family is mourning the tragic loss of their dachshund, Lily Mae, who died suddenly after suspected contact with blue-green algae at Lake Ginninderra. The incident, which occurred on October 11, has prompted renewed calls for increased testing and clearer signage around the popular recreational area, especially following another dog's death from similar suspected causes just weeks prior.
Key Takeaways
- A dachshund named Lily Mae died on October 11 from suspected blue-green algae poisoning at Lake Ginninderra.
- This is the second dog death linked to suspected algae exposure at the lake in recent weeks.
- The family is urging greater public awareness of the risks, even for dogs not directly entering the water.
- Authorities are increasing testing and visual inspections and considering additional signage.
A Devastating Loss
Fiona Hughes's beloved dachshund, Lily Mae, was playing on the grassy banks near Nengi Bamir Beach at Lake Ginninderra when she fell ill. Despite not entering the water, Lily Mae began showing severe symptoms, including difficulty breathing and foaming at the mouth, as Ms Hughes was driving her to a veterinary clinic. Tragically, Lily Mae stopped breathing just minutes before reaching the Animal Referral Hospital, and resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful.
Ms Hughes described Lily Mae as an affectionate, intelligent, and witty companion, who was also in training to become a service dog. The sudden loss has left the family devastated, with Ms Hughes emphasizing that they would never have visited the area if they had been aware of the potential dangers posed by blue-green algae.
Growing Concerns and Official Response
Lily Mae's death follows that of a kelpie in late September, which died after swimming in Lake Ginninderra. At that time, a medium alert for Tychonema, the technical name for blue-green algae, was issued, though the lake remained open for swimming. Dog advocates are calling for more comprehensive testing and more prominent warnings to alert the public to the risks.
A government spokesperson confirmed that waterways are tested weekly between October and April, with results published online. However, they acknowledged that algae levels can change rapidly. The government is increasing sampling and visual inspections and is investigating the need for additional signage.
Understanding the Risks
Blue-green algae blooms typically occur in still water with sufficient nutrients, light, and temperatures above 25 degrees Celsius. High levels of nitrogen and phosphorus can contribute to their growth. The ACT government website warns that accidentally ingesting algae can lead to severe health issues, including liver and nerve damage, and can be fatal.
Veterinary professionals urge pet owners to prevent their animals from swimming in or drinking from water with visible green-blue scum, streaking, or strong odours. If contact occurs, pets should be rinsed thoroughly, and owners should monitor for signs of illness such as weakness, excessive drooling, vomiting, seizures, or collapse. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial if such symptoms appear.
In the long term, the government is investing in sensor technology to detect blue-green algae and is developing a water quality management plan for Lake Ginninderra.