An open letter to Key West dog owners:
Please be careful when you or your dog swim at Dog Beach, Higgs Beach and South Beach.
The recent level of enteric bacteria (fecal bacteria) was 999 at Dog Beach.
The EPA standards require that an advisory be issued for health risks when levels reach or exceed 71 parts or more of enteric bacteria per 100 milliliters. Higgs Beach recently reported more than 10x the amount that can pose health risks, and a sign had been posted. But there were no signs at South Beach or Dog Beach.
I was unaware of the bacteria levels at the beaches until my dog got sick. My dog loves swimming and when the levels were in the 600s a few months ago, my dog nearly died and spent more than 24 hours on an IV at the emergency vet. It took several months for her digestive system to fully heal.
Enteric bacteria is also dangerous for humans, especially those with immune deficiency disorders.
You can follow the levels at local beaches at the following links: floridahealth.gov/environmental-health/beach-water-quality/county-detail.html?County=Monroe&Zip=33040 or data.floridatoday.com/beach-water-quality/monroe-higgs-beach/.
What is enteric bacteria?
This type of bacteria, which inhabits the intestinal tract of people and animals, is an indication of fecal pollution. It may come from stormwater runoff, pets, wildlife and human sewage. Symptoms include upset stomach, diarrhea, eye irritation and skin rashes.
The U.S. EPA’s recommended standards classify water containing various amounts of the bacteria as good, moderate or poor.
Good: 0-35 parts of enterococcus bacteria per 100 milliliters
Moderate: 36-70 parts of enterococcus bacteria per 100 milliliters
Poor: 71 parts or greater of enterococcus bacteria per 100 milliliters. Though a “poor” water quality test may not close a beach, the department issues an advisory for potential health risks in areas with water in the “poor” range.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and please share it with your friends and fellow dog lovers.
Sincerely,
Jenny Grace
Key West
