safe algae removal?

[TM964x4]

Are there any pet safe products or home remedies that can remove algae/ prevent it from filling up water bowls? Thanks guys

[mcbosco]

add some apple cider vinegar to the water, lowering the PH should help

[TM964x4]

Ok great ill give it a shot thanks. I just need to add a little bit correct? Too much may discourage the dog from drinking correct?

[BigShooter]

If you are using a plastic bowl throw it away & start fresh with a new stainless steel bowl. Algae & bacteria can become embedded in plastic especially as the plastic breaks down with age. Wash daily with soap & hot water or vinegar & warm water if necessary. Scrub tough deposits with baking soda as needed. Refill with fresh water every day. Keep the water dish out of direct sunlight. Place the bucket in a sheltered area where vegetation and other debris cannot fall into the water.

[jlp8cornell]

add some apple cider vinegar to the water, lowering the PH should help

I just started doing this and add ~1T. for 3qts. Depending on where you live, your water supply may have certain minerals, etc that cause algae to build up on the bowls, even within one day. My well water did and I use stainless bowls. After I started adding the vinegar and it has helped a lot. The dogs drink more as well. They like the taste.

[mcbosco]

Buy the good stuff if you can Braggs,I bought a quart yesterday on sale for $3.89 in NYC. Organic with the "mother" bacteria, Most dogs like the taste and its good for them but just add a tablespoon or two to a big bowl like Cornell indicated. Some people find it helps with fleas but I don't know of any studies on that. If its used for a few months you might also see an improvement in the dogs teeth.

[jiml]

If its used for a few months you might also see an improvement in the dogs teeth.>>>


couldn't the acidity of the vinegar wear at the enamel if used continually?

[mcbosco]

I asked a canine dentist that question a few years back and he said he doubted that a tablespoon or two mixed in water or food would do any harm to healthy teeth. It is a good question though. The enamel on a dog's tooth is pretty tough.

I will tell you one thing, that stuff does wonders as a deoderizer for beards!!!!!

[birddog1968]

we use a scotchbrite pad and stainless buckets, wipe and fresh water every day.