It's crucial to stay hydrated at all times, but it's more crucial during the summer when you're taking regular walks in the intense heat. While enjoying the warm heat can be a lot of fun, dog owners should be mindful of the risks associated with canine dehydration.
We talked to veterinarians to explain everything you need to know about what canine dehydration looks like and why it's so crucial to keep your dog hydrated. In addition, we describe how puppy dehydration may differ from adult dog dehydration as well as warning indicators and appropriate responses.
Both canines and people commonly suffer from dehydration and heatstroke. It happens when the body consistently expels too much fluid, regardless of how much juice your dog consumes. Dogs need water because it keeps them hydrated and ensures that their biological processes run smoothly, serving as the "potion for life" for them. Dehydration is a dangerous condition with devastating effects like organ failure or even death. To determine whether your dog is dehydrated, carefully review the signs and act as soon as you can.
How Dehydration Takes Place
Your dog's body normally loses water during the day through breathing, panting, peeing, feces, and paw evaporation. Your dog replaces these lost fluids and electrolytes by eating and drinking
Your dog's body will experience decreased blood flow and fluid volume when its fluid intake falls below its fluid loss, which will result in less oxygen, heatstroke, and sunburn reaching its organs and tissues.
Both humans and dogs need electrolytes, which are minerals that occur naturally in the body. Electrolytes including sodium, chloride, and potassium manage the body's pH, carry nutrients into cells, promote muscle action, and regulate nerve function.
The Symptoms Of Dog Dehydration
It's obvious, but we have to say it: Thirst is one of the earliest indications of dehydration. Your body is simply sending you a "warning message" to drink some water immediately. While it's simple for us humans to discern when we're thirsty, it takes a little more focus to notice when our dogs appear to be dehydrated.
- Panting Laziness (Low Energy)
- Recessed Eyes
- Having No Appetite
- Wet Nose
- Dense Saliva
- Sour Gums
Hydration For Dogs
- Make sure there is always access to plenty of fresh water. Generally speaking, canines and felines require one ounce of water per pound of body weight every day.
- Replace the water in the bowls every day; don't just top them off. The growth of bacteria in the bowl may deter your pet from drinking.
- Carry water with you when going on road trips, hiking, or other strenuous or protracted adventures so your pet may stay hydrated.
- Consider a pet-specific fountain with flowing water for picky drinkers. If the fountain has a filter, this could help keep the water cleaner and simply make drinking more fascinating for your pet, particularly cats. Other tricks include adding a little quantity of low-fat, low-sodium broth to the water, putting water in different types of containers (such as a cup or small pail), or placing water in different places in your home.
- Make wet food a part of your pet's diet. Due to its increased moisture content than dry food, it can help your cat or dog drink less water. You might also try hydrating kibble with water.
- By engaging in outdoor activities at cooler times of the day, you can help prevent fluid loss.
If Your Puppy Becomes Dehydrated, Get Help Right Away
If your dog is exhibiting symptoms of shock, heat stroke, or severe dehydration, call your veterinarian straight away. Your veterinarian may urge you to begin giving your dog small amounts of water to begin the rehydration process while you're driving to the veterinarian's office. When a dog is extremely dehydrated, the only treatment choice is intravenous fluids.
To Conclude
Always make sure your healthy dog has access to plenty of fresh drinking water to avoid dehydration. If your dog exercises vigorously or spends time outside in the heat, it will need more water to stay hydrated.
Normal daily water requirements for dogs are one ounce per pound of body weight. If you're unsure whether your dog is getting enough water to drink, ask your veterinarian for advice.