💦 How to keep your Bestie hydrated in the warmer weather 💦

How to keep your Bestie hydrated in the warmer weather

Water is an essential nutrient, not only for regulating body temperature, but also as an aid to digestion, metabolism, circulation, and waste removal.

Keeping your dog hydrated during hot summer weather is important because dogs can become dehydrated or develop heat-related illnesses surprisingly quickly.

 

How Much Water Does a Dog Need?

A common guideline is about 50–60 ml of water per kilogram of bodyweight per day, though dogs typically need more in hot weather, during exercise, or if they eat dry food. The amount of water they should drink will also depend on their age, size, activity level, and certain medical conditions or treatments.

 

Provide Plenty of Fresh Water

·         Keep multiple bowls of clean, cool water available, especially if your dog moves between rooms or spends time outdoors

·         Refill bowls frequently throughout the day

·         Wash water bowls regularly to keep the water fresh

·         Add small sized ice cubes into their water to keep it cool

 

Take Water with you on Walks

·         Carry a portable water bottle and collapsible bowl during walks, hikes, or trips

·         Offer water regularly rather than waiting for your dog to appear thirsty

 

Schedule Exercise Carefully

·         Walk your dog during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening

·         Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat hours

·         Hot paving slabs and tarmac can burn paws and increase heat stress

 

Offer Hydrating Treats

Some dogs enjoy:

·         Frozen dog-safe broth treats

·         Water-rich foods such as small amounts of cucumber or watermelon (without seeds or rind), or apple slices

 

Keep Them Cool

·         Provide shade outdoors and maybe a paddling pool to splash around in

·         Use fans or air conditioning when possible

·         Put damp towels down or a self-cooling mat for your dog to lie on

·         Never leave a dog in a parked car, even for a short time

 

Encourage Drinking

If you think your dog is not drinking enough:

·         Make sure their bowl is the right size and height

·         Use a slightly elevated water stand for older or arthritic dogs

·         Flavour the water lightly with bone broth

·         Try a pet fountain if your dog prefers moving water

 

If your dog stops drinking water

There are several possible causes for your dog to suddenly stop or significantly reduce their water intake, these include:

·         Stress, anxiety, or environmental changes such as moving house, travel, new pets, or visitors

·         Pain or illness from a dental problem, mouth injury, nausea, fever, infection, diabetes

·         Certain medications that affect thirst or appetite

·         A dirty water bowl or change in water source, which some dogs are surprisingly sensitive to

·         The sound of their collar or collar tag hitting the bowl can be off-putting for some dogs

·         Not enough water in the bowl, particularly if they have to share

 

Signs of Dehydration

It can be difficult to recognise dehydration in dogs, but if your dog is drinking significantly less than usual, has refused water for more than 24 hours or more, seems unwell, or shows signs of any of the following, contact your vet as soon as possible:

·         Dry or sticky gums

·         Excessive panting

·         Sunken eyes

·         Lethargy or weakness

·         Loss of appetite

·         Vomiting or diarrhoea

·         Reduced skin elasticity (skin stays "tented" when gently lifted)

 

References

https://www.royalkennelclub.com/health-and-dog-care/health-dog-care/health/health-and-care/a-z-of-health-and-care-issues/how-can-i-keep-my-dog-cool/

https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/health-wellbeing/at-home/drinking-water