Local pet owners are concerned after three dogs died over the weekend from suspected toxic algae poisoning.

The dogs were reported to be near the Galloway Bridge area of the Manuherikia River. 

A post about the incident was placed on the Alexandra Buy and Sell Facebook page by an anonymous member on Sunday morning, warning others of the dangers in the Galloway area, where the dogs had been running around.

The post has been shared widely. 

The member explained the dogs’ symptoms occurred “very quickly within an hour.”

“Lethargic swaying, running poos, smelling rotten, became paralysed from the head down, cold, shaking, high pressure uncontrollable bodily functions with blood [in] urine.”

Community members said it was heartbreaking, devastating and they were very sorry to hear of the death of the three dogs. 

Central Otago District Council and councillors Tamah Alley and Jayden Cromb have been asking owners to keep dogs away from this area as well on their Facebook pages. 

Toxic algae (cyanobacteria) has been found at Butchers Dam this summer and Otago Regional Council (ORC) is advising people and pets stay away from the water.

For the latest toxic algae sightings visit ORC website here.

Other toxic algae hotspots mentioned online by ORC are Silver Stream in Mosgiel, Cardrona River, Manuherekia River, Hāwea River in Central Otago and Waianakarua River, North Otago. 

ORC released a list of its top 10 holiday tips this summer. The top of the list read: 'Keep your doggo safe - look out for toxic algal blooms, which occur when temperatures rise.

Read more: Butchers Dam still a danger zone.