Tuesday 9 August 2022 03:58 PM Council issues warning as several dogs die 'after drinking water from lake ... trends now
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A toxic algae is believed to be behind a string of dog deaths in east London, sparking an urgent investigation and a health warning from local authorities.
Visitors to Highams Park Lake, in Epping Forest, Chingford, have been told to steer clear of the water until tests are performed on the potentially deadly blue and green algae blooms.
It comes after a 'number of dogs' are believed to have died after drinking from the lake in recent days.
A statement on Highams Park News read: 'Warning issued for Highams Park lake as toxic algae found.
'The Council has been made aware of a number of dogs dying after (it is believed) they drank from Highams Park Lake.
'Post mortem results show the presence of a toxic Blue/Green Algae.
'The City of London Corporation, which manages Epping Forest, is warning visitors against swimming, fishing or taking dogs into the water at Highams Park Lake until testing for suspected toxic blue-green algae blooms have been completed.'
Epping Forest has since advised dog owners to bring drinking water on their walks.
Visitors to Highams Park Lake (pictured), in Epping Forest, Chingford, have been told to steer clear of the water until tests are performed on the potentially deadly algae blooms
A 'number of dogs' are believed to have died after drinking from the lake in recent days (stock image)
It said: 'Bringing your canine companion for a walk in Epping Forest?
'Please take care near water and don't let dogs drinks from or swim in any of the ponds or rivers.
'Water quality is not monitored. Please bring drinking water for your dogs with you.'
It comes after rising levels of pollution in Britain's rivers has this year sparked health fears for wild swimmers as the 19th century pastime made a comeback.
