Poison algae search after dog taken ill

An investigation into poisonous algae that has the potential to kill dogs is under way.

Walsall's countryside chief Kevin Clements said he is personally investigating pools at Rough Wood Chase Local Nature.

He said he is taking a warning from vets "very seriously" after it emerged a springer spaniel had fallen seriously ill after going into a pool at the beauty spot.

Mr Clements said today: "I have been checking pools at the nature reserve this week looking for signs of the blue-green algae but there are dozens of pools at the site which is the biggest nature reserve in Walsall and stretches from Bentley right up to Sneyd.

"It is difficult to stop because it is a naturally occurring species and at this time of year with the light and weather it does have tendency to bloom.

"If people are exposed they are at risk of developing a nasty skin infection or diarrhea. For dogs it can be fatal."