Algae blooms have been found in bodies of water at two of the biggest parks in New York City, and officials are warning dog owners to keep their pets on a short leash, because it could be potentially fatal for animals. NBC 4 New York’s Rana Novini reports.
New Yorkers are being warned to keep their young children and pets away from several lakes and ponds in New York City parks due to toxic algae.
The New York Department of Environmental Conservation says the blue-green algae, which can kill dogs, was detected in Turtle Pond and Harlem Meer in Central Park and in part of the large pond in Prospect Park.
People and animals exposed to tainted water should wash immediately with potable water. Exposure can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, irritated eyes, seizures and breathing problems.
The potentially dangerous algea looks like blue or green paint on the water's surface, although it is not always visible to the naked eye.
