safe lakes for dogs

[DarthBaiter]

I'm a newer dog owner and my pup loves the water. My concern is I've heard so much about making sure the water is free of the blue/green algae. I do know someone who had a dog run to the water ahead of them and take a drink, go into convulsions and die in their arms. That story freaked me out a bit. So with that concern what exactly do I need to watch out for or am i paranoid now? Also can anyone give me some names and places (example of where I can safely/legally access the water) of their favorite lakes to take the pooch for a swim? Preferably in either the Buffalo/Delano or the Willmar/Spicer area, but any favorite lake is welcome.

[nofishfisherman]

Blue/green algae should be fairly apparent if there is a bloom in any particular body of water so they should be easy to avoid if you are just looking for a swimming lake. The harder part is when out hunting a dog or working with them in the field. They may come across a swamp or pond with the stuff and grab a drink before you can catch up.

In terms of just swimming I wouldn't worry too much about it. Just don't swim in a big bloom of the algae and you should be fine.

As far as legal lakes I can't help you there. What we do is just go to a public beach later at night when the crowds are gone. Lake Owasso in Roseville has a decent beach area and plenty of space outside the designated swim area to let a dog swim a little.

[CJH]

I may be mistaken, but generally I believe those blooms occur in smaller, shallower lakes/ponds. I would just avoid them and find a little bigger/deeper lake and you should be fine. If there is a public beech or park, just go there in off times. I have done this when I am visiting relatives in Central MN. Ferry Lake in Sauk Centre is a good one, if you happen to be in the area.

Good Luck!!