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 aftercoming 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.

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• What you should know about toxic algae blooms if you're heading to the St. John River
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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 Grondinechoed 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 norpeople have to avoid the water completely, but noted they should be watchful for the algae. Signs were postedwarning ofthe toxic blooms.

Mike McHughsaid he'sbeen able to avoid the algae. Heruns Rock the Boat River Adventuresand he wasstill 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."