The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is currently investigating reports of an unexplained illness affecting multiple dogs in the Venice Canals area. As of August 8, there have been 26 suspected canine cases reported, including five canine deaths. Commonly reported symptoms in affected dogs include sudden and severe lethargy and weakness, lack of coordination, vomiting, tremors or seizures. The most recent case had symptoms that began on July 30, 2025. The source of the illnesses is still under investigation.
Public Health understands the concern this may cause in the community and wants to assure residents that we are treating this matter with the utmost urgency.
Experts from multiple parts of our department, including Veterinary Public Health, Environmental Health, and Acute Communicable Disease, have been engaged to investigate all possible sources of these illnesses, including exposure to any pesticides, harmful organisms, or environmental hazards. City, State and County agencies are also involved and supporting the investigation and response.
Preliminary Environmental Findings
As part of the investigation, the Water Quality Control Board tested the canal water, algae and scum. Results found the presence of toxins produced by algae. While a definitive link to the dog illnesses has yet to be confirmed, out of an abundance of caution, the City of Los Angeles is taking proactive measures to protect the public and animal health.
Canal Advisory and Safety Guidance
The City will post signage around affected canal areas warning residents and visitors of the potential risk of toxins from algae. Until further notice, people and pets are strongly advised to:
- Avoid swimming in the canals
- Stay away from scum, foam, and cloudy or discolored water
- Do not use canal water for drinking or cooking
- Do not allow pets to enter or drink the water, or to eat, touch or sniff algae, scum, or any debris near the water
- Avoid eating shellfish from these waters
- If you catch fish in this water, throw away fish guts (which can contain toxins), and clean and thoroughly rinse fillets with clean, fresh water. Wash your hands, tools, and any surfaces afterward. When in doubt, do not eat the fish.
Health Effects from Exposure to the Algae-related Toxins
The health effects of the toxins from the algae vary by route of exposure. For humans, the toxins can cause skin rashes, eye irritation, diarrhea, and vomiting. For animals, the toxins can cause diarrhea, vomiting, convulsions and death.
Advice for Pet Owners and Veterinarians
Pet owners who think their pets may be sick should seek immediate veterinary care. Veterinarians who have relevant information should report suspected cases to the Veterinary Public Health Program at (213) 288-7060 or vet@ph.lacounty.gov.
🔔 Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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