The north woods has dangers even in the dirt! “Blasto” can be a fatal condition for dogs and other animals. If your dog is a “digger” and becomes lethargic, or has difficult breathing with a cough or a fever, you must see a veterinarian as soon as possible. There have been several cases of Blasto in the Deer Lake area in recent years. Here are some links to further information:
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/blastomycosis-in-dogs
Blue-Green algae is a serious heath problem for you, your kids and pets that occurs sporadically, especially towards the middle and end of the summer, when water temperatures rise, and nutrients have washed into the near-shore area where docks and beaches are located. Sources of nutrients include the runoff from a fertilized lawn to lake, non-compliant septic systems, campfires on the beach, and especially bathing with soap and shampoo. While the contaminants cause harm to the entire lake, it is your immediate shoreline that will be affected the most. Here are several links that provide more information:
https://www.theswimguide.org/2014/08/07/5-ways-to-protect-yourself-from-blue-green-algae
https://www.pca.state.mn.us/air-water-land-climate/blue-green-algae-and-harmful-algal-blooms
The mild winter in the Northland has resulted in a bumper crop of ticks. There are several species of tick, the Deer Tick, now caller the “Black Legged Tick,” being the smallest and most dangerous for Lyme Disease. Only about half of the ticks actually carry the Lyme, but you never know. If you have symptoms there is a cure via doctor prescribed antibiotics. There are also other tick-borne diseases such as Anaplasmosis, Babesiosis, Ehrlichiosis, and Powassan encephalitis, all of which can have severe long-term symptoms. Symptoms include a red spot often shaped like a bullseye target or rash near the site, neck stiffness, muscle ache or joint pain. Deet has been the standard defense, but newer sprays such as Permethrin and others are also effective. Check clothes for crawlers, and skin. Remove attached ticks as soon as possible by carefully grasping close to the skin with tweezers or tissue. There is a special tweezer available with small magnifer glass. Pull the tick slowly to avoid breaking off mouth parts. Germicide or iodine can clean the wound; expect an itch for weeks! Ticks favor open areas with high grass or plants along a trail where they can climb up and jump onto you. Your yard could be a haven. Dogs are tick magnets and can escort their consort inside. Be sure to check your PETS and CHILDREN thoroughly.
The north woods are full of Poison Ivy and some other dangerous plants.
Link to basic information on PI: https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/shrub/western-poison-ivy
Link to KAXE’s John Latimer’s Identification Guide: https://www.kaxe.org/show/91-7-kaxe-90-5-kbxe-morning-show/2024-07-26/phenology-report-poison-ivy-identify-identification-minnesota-mn-nature
Here is a website with more information and an Identification Guide with Photos:
The water level in Deer Lake normally stays fairly constant, but the last few years have seen greater swings in Lake Level. The season starts high, but by the end of the summer the water becomes low enough that it is often difficult for boats to get to the Access for removal during the winter.
