Southern Grampians Shire often advise that Blue Green Algae scum has been detected at Lake Hamilton. Dogs should not be allowed to swim or drink from the lake when this blue green algae has been detected (click here for current advice)

If certain wind conditions are present, the film will often concentrate along the shoreline in areas where animals may drink or swim. Dogs can develop poisoning when they drink or swim in contaminated water sources. If blue-green algae is ingested, it can cause severe neurologic or liver damage.

Signs of blue-green algae toxicity can include excessive drooling, vomiting and disorientation. For more information on Blue Green algae and the monitoring of algal blooms on Lake Hamilton click on this factsheet.