Residents of Alameda are alarmed after reports of dog illnesses and deaths linked to the island's lagoon. The Alameda West Lagoon HOA notified residents about a dog that fell ill and later died after interacting with the lagoon water, prompting worries about its safety. City officials are conducting toxicity tests on the lagoon to check for harmful algae. Expert Tony Marks-Block warns that toxic algae can cause severe nerve damage to pets and humans. The lagoon remains a beloved spot for local dogs, but caution is urged as test results are pending.
The HOA said the water would be tested for toxic algae. We spoke to Cal State University, East Bay assistant professor of Anthropology, Geography and Environmental Studies Tony Marks-Block about what toxic algae can do to humans or pets. "It can cause severe nerve damage to people if they ingest them and same with any sort of pet," said Professor Marks-Block.
In a statement, the city of Alameda confirmed they took samples from all five lagoons and are doing a complete toxicity panel, adding, "That will test for both fresh and saltwater harmful algae. The samples were driven to a lab in Sacramento yesterday, but we do not expect results until next week."
"It was really concerning. The lagoon has always been a part of Alameda and as a lifelong resident, we have always had some concerns about the water," said Julia Stevens, Alameda resident.
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