• Pets and livestock can be exposed to HABs, and their associated toxins, through either direct contact, including swimming or wading, or ingestion.

  • Symptoms of HAB exposure in animals may include:
    Vomiting
    Foaming at the mouth
    Diarrhea
    Convulsions
    Excessive Drooling
    Tremors and Seizures
    Loss of energy and/or appetite

    HAB toxin response will be species dependent.

  • According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, there are currently no designated treatments for HAB toxin exposure in animals except for supportive care.

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a guide on clinical information for veterinarians: https://www.cdc.gov/habs/specific-groups/veterinarians-cyanobacteria.html

  • If the HAB occurred in a public water body, contact the SC DHEC Emergency Environmental Response hotline at 1-888-481-0125.

    The Center of Disease Control and Prevention also recommends the following:
    For questions on exposures to HABs, contact Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222.
    For questions on animal health, contact ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-764-7661. There may be a fee associated with these calls.