TOAD LAKE, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A health advisory has been issued for toxic algae at a Whatcom County lake.

Whatcom County Health and Community Services says that recent testing found increased levels of microcystins at Toad Lake that aren’t considered safe for humans or pets.

The toxic algae forms at the bottom of a lake, which later rises to the surface as a dark green or brown bloom or mat.

Consuming the algae can lead to liver issues, nausea and pneumonia in both humans and pets.

Anyone looking to spend a day at Toad Lake is advised not to touch or consume any algal blooms or mats they may encounter.

If pets manage to get into contact with algae, owners are advised to wash their paws with clean water and discourage the pets from licking it.