Dog owners have been warned about the risk of blue-green algae this summer.
Dogs Trust Shoreham has issued a warning about the toxic algae that is found in lakes, ponds, and rivers.
The charity said the recent hot weather could cause an increase in the amount of blue-green algae, which can be "highly toxic to dogs".
Dogs can become seriously ill after ingesting a small amount of the algae, either by drinking water or licking their fur after swimming.
The algae can have a detrimental effect on their liver and neurological system and can be fatal.
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Charlie Matthias, senior veterinary surgeon at Dogs Trust, said: "As temperatures continue to soar and water levels drop, there is a potential for an increase in blue-green algae, which poses a real threat to dogs.
"On hot days, it can be tempting to let your dog dip in your local lake or river to cool down, but blue-green algae can make your dog very sick, and in some cases, prove fatal if ingested even in small quantities."
Symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning can appear within minutes and include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, muscle tremors, seizures, breathing difficulties and collapse.
If owners suspect their dog has been exposed, they should contact a vet immediately.
Mr Matthias added: "We’re urging all dog owners to avoid letting their dogs swim in or drink from lakes or rivers that look green, scummy, have surface foam or have warning signs nearby.
"Blue-green algae is not always easy to spot, so if in doubt, don’t let your dogs swim in or drink from the water.
"And, if you are walking your dog near water where blue algae have formed, keep them on a lead."
Unfortunately, there is no antidote for the toxins produced by the blue-green algae.
However, if caught early enough, a vet may be able to flush the toxins from the dog's body.
As a precaution, Dogs Trust has advised owners to avoid letting their dogs swim in or drink from still or stagnant water during hot weather.
They have also urged owners to wash their dogs thoroughly if they have been in contact with potentially contaminated water and immediately contact a vet for advice.
For more information visit the Dogs Trust website.
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