Denver Parks & Recreation and Denver Department of Public Health and Environment officials are warning the public about a deadly blue-green algae found in Sloan Lake. 

The deadly algae Cyanobacteria can cause neurological problems and liver failure that can lead to death in dogs, cats, livestock, wildlife, birds, fish and even humans.

In response to the discovery of the toxic algae, officials placed warning signs around the lake Thursday, officials said. 

Blue-green algae blooms can have a pea-green color or look like slime on the surface. They usually form in summer and early fall, but can occur at other times of the year under certain conditions, officials said. 

Fishing on-motorized boating equipment such as canoes, paddle boards and kayaks are still permitted, but officials urge people to avoid algae mats and to follow proper hygiene. 

Dogs are one of the highest at-risk to the deadly algae as they can acquire its toxins by drinking the water or licking it off their fur. Symptoms can show in as little as 15 minutes.

If consumed, a dog could die within hours and people can get sick and experience headache, diarrhea, weakness and liver damage, officials said. 

Officials say if a dog gets into a harmful bloom you should rinse them off immediately with fresh, clean water. For humans, similarly rinse off with soap and water. 

The algae tends to congregate along the shorelines of bodies of water and in the marina. 

Officials say the algae will linger in the water for at least another month, or until temperatures begin to cool.