In coordination with the Maryland Department of Agriculture, Maryland Department of the Environment and Maryland Department of Health, we are sending you this flyer to caution boat owners and others about exposure of dogs to dark false mussels.
There has been an association of illnesses and fatalities after dogs have ingested barnacles and/or dark false mussels scraped from boats.
Dark false mussels are native to Chesapeake Bay and occur in higher abundances during high rainfall years. They are commonly found along piers, riprap, rope lines and on boat bottoms.
The Maryland State Veterinarian has an ongoing investigation into the cause. If you have questions or concerns, please contact your veterinarian.
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