Anger over lack of warning as algae kills dog

One dog died and two became sick days after experts declared a section of the Selwyn River safe.

Environment Canterbury (ECan) yesterday elevated a warning over a toxic river algae that killed at least two dogs and made two more sick.

"I checked ECan's website before we took the dogs out ... And it said it was fine at Chamberlain's Ford," dog owner Owen Johnstone said.

His six-month-old beagle Charlie became sick and started convulsing on Sunday after lapping up some of the algae in the Selwyn River.

"I got really annoyed today [Monday] because the website was still saying that the Ashley Gorge and Chamberlain's Ford are fine for swimming; they've still got it as good quality water. It's not good enough that they can't even change a website." MORE>>

I'm so glad that my dog hates swimming ! ... What an aweful feeling to have gone for a walk with your dog, only to have him die.