Electric Shock, Algae & Outdoor Hazards

This most often happens when puppies chew cables. Protect yourself first: do NOT touch your dog while they’re still in contact with electricity. Switch off at the mains if possible, or separate them with a wooden or plastic object — never metal or water. Check breathing; if they’re not breathing, begin CPR and get emergency care. Look for burns on the mouth, tongue, lips and paws, but don’t apply ointments, burst blisters or put ice directly on.

A dog can seem normal at first and deteriorate later. Electricity can disrupt heart rhythm, stop breathing, and cause fluid to build up in the lungs, which may happen hours later. Burns can worsen over 24–48 hours. All electrical injuries need a vet assessment, and difficulty breathing after a shock is an emergency.

Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) grows in still or slow-moving fresh water in warm weather, often late spring to early autumn. Water may look bright green, paint-like or scummy — but not always. Even small amounts can be fatal. If exposed, stop further access, rinse your dog thoroughly with clean water (wear gloves if possible), stop them licking their coat and get to the vet immediately. There’s no safe home treatment.

Alabama Rot is rare. Cases are most commonly reported in winter and early spring, after heavy rain and muddy woodland walks. The first sign is often an unexplained sore on the legs, paws, face or body. Call your vet if sores appear after muddy walks, worsen, or come with vomiting or lethargy. Rinse and dry legs after muddy walks. For ticks: use a tick tool or fine tweezers, grasp close to the skin and pull steadily straight out. Don’t burn, smother or yank them.