Memphis park closes lakes and tests for toxic algae after two dog deaths

Shelby Farms Park said Thursday it has been unable to discern the cause of death of two dogs after playing in the Outback Dog Park within Shelby Farms. 

The park also said they are awaiting lab results from tests of the water at the dog park.

"In addition to lab testing, we are working with multiple partners to ensure that we have the most accurate information about our lake ecosystems," according to a statement from park officials. Out of an abundance of caution, we are closing the lakes in The Outback." 

The closure comes hours after a Facebook post claimed two dogs died shortly after playing in the dog park lake at Shelby Farms park went Memphis-viral on Wednesday, prompting thousands of shares among anxious dog owners and a response from the park. 

The post accumulated thousands of shares within hours, and a variety of responses from Memphians who said they would err on the side of caution and keep their pets from playing in the dog park until more information was known. 

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The park responded to the post Wednesday night, and updated it again Thursday morning, reiterated that testing of the dog park lake will provide more insight into the health of the lake. 

"We understand and share the passion our visitors have for pet safety and we appreciate everyone’s patience as we continue to gather information, wait for lab results and formulate action plans as needed," the park statement said. 

On Aug. 13, before any allegations of dog fatalities surfaced, the park informed the public in a Facebook post that they were aware of reports of toxic algae found in bodies of water in several states, including Tennessee, but said that no such algae had been found anywhere within the park.

The post also said the park routinely tests the bodies of water within the entire park, and would continue to closely monitor the dog park as an extra precaution.

A University of Tennessee microbiologist, Steven Wilhem, said he had been fielding inquiries this summer from concerned dog owners after evidence of water-born toxins appeared in Knoxville. 

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"It's tough to say that you have to worry or don't have to worry," said Wilhem. "Just because there's no evidence of these toxins in Knoxville doesn't mean people shouldn't be prudent when they go in water."

In North Carolina, one woman said all three of her dogs died within hours of being exposed to toxic algae blooms in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Wilhelm said the best way to avoid deadly algae is to look before you or your pets swim in water. He said toxin-releasing algae is difficult to tell from regular algae, but look for a scum on the surface that appears to be green paint.

The Commercial Appeal reached out to Shelby Farms Park, and was told they are working on additional media updates.