Dog swimming advisories posted at 2 Erie County spots due to harmful algal blooms
David BruceDog swimming advisories have been issued for two waterfront locations in Erie County after harmful algal blooms were found.
Water samples taken this week at those two locations showed toxin levels that exceeded what is considered safe for dogs, the Erie County Department of Health and Regional Science Consortium reported.
Advisories have been posted at the locations, warning people to keep their dogs out of the water.
- Eaton Reservoir in Greenfield Township
- Smith Reservoir in North East Township
More:No dogs allowed: Harmful algal blooms spark advisories in Erie County
The thresholds for dogs are lower than what is considered unsafe for humans because dogs tend to drink water when they swim.
Ingesting water infected with these toxins can cause gastrointestinal illness in dogs that can be life-threatening in some cases.
More:PennEnvironment report focuses on beaches with water that could make swimmers sick
The Regional Science Consortium tests water samples taken from sites across Erie County where public swimming is permitted, not just at Presque Isle.
The advisories will remain in effect until subsequent tests show the toxins have declined to a safe level.
Contact David Bruce at dbruce@timesnews.com. Follow him on Twitter @ETNBruce.