Keep Your Dog Hydrated This Summer!

Keep Your Dog Hydrated This Summer!

With the arrival of summer, temperatures start to rise, and it becomes essential to keep our furry friends hydrated. Dehydration can cause serious health problems, such as lethargy, vomiting, and in severe cases, heatstroke. Read on to learn about the importance of keeping your dog hydrated this summer and ways to do it.

Why is Hydration Important for Dogs?

Water is fundamental to life, and it’s no different when it comes to your dog. Water plays numerous important roles in your dog’s body, such as regulating body temperature, digestion, and elimination. Here are a few reasons why keeping your dog hydrated is crucial:

1. Preventing heatstroke: Dogs lose body heat primarily through panting. If they become dehydrated, their body temperature can rise to dangerous levels, leading to heatstroke.

2. Maintaining organ function: Water is necessary for kidneys and other internal organs to function correctly. If your dog is dehydrated, it can lead to kidney and other organ failure.

3. Healthy skin and coat: Water helps keep your dog’s skin moisturized and prevent dry coat and skin.

4. Improved digestion: Water helps your dog digest food, pass waste properly, and prevent constipation.

5. Proper muscle function: Water is vital for maintaining muscle function and preventing muscle fatigue.

How to Keep your Dog Hydrated this Summer

Here are five ways to keep your furry friend hydrated this summer:

1. Fresh Clean Water

The most effective way to keep your dog hydrated is by providing fresh, clean water 24/7. Provide access to water at all times, both indoors and outdoors. Ensure the water bowl is clean and refill it during the day to keep the water fresh and cool. Use stainless steel bowls to help keep your dog’s water cooler.

2. Ice Water and Treats

Dogs love ice water and frozen treats. You can freeze bone broth, chicken broth, or even plain chicken broth in ice cube trays, crushing the cubes and adding them to your dog’s water dishes. You can also make frozen treats by mixing plain yogurt, water, and fruit like berries and freezing them in molds.

3. Wet Food

Wet food is a great way to get more water into your dog’s diet, especially if your dog is reluctant to drink enough water during the day. The water content in wet food can help keep your dog hydrated throughout the day. Consult with your veterinarian for the right type of wet food for your dog.

4. Water on the go

If you plan to take your dog out with you this summer, make sure to bring enough water and a portable water bowl to keep your dog hydrated. You can also buy a water bottle with an attached bowl or a collapsible bowl that’s easy to carry.

5. Grooming your dog

Grooming is an essential part of keeping your dog healthy, happy, and hydrated. Removing excess fur and mats helps to keep your dog cool and improve airflow to their skin. A well-groomed dog is less likely to overheat, which can lead to dehydration, among other health issues.

Signs of Dehydration

It’s essential to keep an eye out for signs of dehydration in your dog. Here are the symptoms to look out for:

1. Dry gums: Healthy gums should be moist and pink in color.

2. Lethargy: A dehydrated dog may be unusually tired and have difficulty moving around.

3. Sunken eyes: Sunken eyes are an indication that your dog may be dehydrated.

4. Loss of appetite: A dehydrated dog may not feel like eating.

5. Loss of Skin Elasticity: Gently pinch the skin at the back of your dog’s neck. When properly hydrated, the skin should snap back uniformly. If the skin stays tented, your dog may be dehydrated.

Conclusion

Keeping your dog hydrated is essential, especially as temperatures continue to rise in the summer months. Don’t forget that fresh water should always be available, both indoors and outdoors. Additionally, use these five tips to help keep your furry friend hydrated throughout the hot and humid summer months.

If you suspect your dog is dehydrated, contact your veterinarian immediately. Early detection and treatment can help prevent potential health problems and keep your furry friend happy and healthy all summer long.

Categorised in: Pet Care, Pet Grooming, Pet Safety