What should be done regarding pets when microcystin levels are at 20 ppb or more?

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Microcystin toxins from algal blooms are extremely harmful to animals, and pets are especially vulnerable because they often drink from or play in contaminated water. When the toxin level reaches 20 ppb or higher, the safest and most protective action is to keep pets from using or consuming that water. Ingestion is the main route of harm, and there’s no quick antidote, so preventing exposure is essential to avoid potential liver damage or worse.

Allowing pets to swim but not drink could still lead to incidental ingestion or licking of wet fur, which isn’t reliably safe at these levels. Feeding pets fish from the contaminated water could transfer the toxin through the fish. No restrictions would leave pets at serious risk. Keeping pets away from that water entirely minimizes exposure and protects their health.