August Topics

Blue Green Algae (Microcystin) blooms are a common late summer/fall problem in Iowa lakes and ponds. They're important to keep track of because the toxin from the algae can be deadly to pets and humans. The Iowa DNR and Iowa Public Health have issued warnings for Black Hawk Lake and Lake of Three Fires. I get notice of public health threats through IRVIN, the Iowa Rapid Veterinary Information Network, and try to pass them on as they occur. For more information on Microcystin toxin see my blog post for Sept. 15th, 2009.

I haven't seen the usual high numbers of fleas so far this summer. A couple of possible reasons: flea reproduction can actually slow down in extreme heat and dry conditions when fewer larvae survive to pupate. This will change soon. Also, the newer flea medications are getting more and more effective. Studies on Vectra have shown that that only 25 percent of fleas live long enough on protected pets to bite. This is the best in the industry. For more information see the Sept. 21st, 2010 post.