July: National Pet Hydration Awareness Month

by | Jul 1, 2024 | Blog

As outside temperatures rise during the peak of summertime heat, it’s crucial humans and animals alike stay hydrated! Pet hydration is highly overlooked, yet critical to your pet’s general health and well-being. Inconsistent access to cool, fresh water replenishment can seriously limit their mobility and strength. Chronic dehydration can turn fatal. Since we are responsible for the hydration of our four-legged companions, it is recommended to routinely check up on their water bowls, refill water fountains, and keep in mind the symptoms of dehydration.

Signs your pet is dehydration:

  • Dry, tacky gums
  • Panting
  • Thick saliva
  • Sunken eyes
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy
  • Loss of skin elasticity

In terms of our furry friends, puppies/kittens, senior pets, and nursing mothers, may have an increased risk of dehydration. Also, some pets may be picky about their water preferences and may need encouragement to drink water. Giving wet food, adding broth to dry kibble, or ice cubes can offer alternatives to entice your pet to stay hydrated.

Dehydration in dogs and cats can also be a symptom of an underlying cause, including kidney disease, diabetes, or some types of cancer. It’s best to be in-tune with your pet’s daily habits, along with their intake of food and water. Generally, pets require at least one ounce of water per day for each pound of body weight. Your veterinarian can offer advice about how best to ensure your dog consumes enough fluids, based on their age, weight, and condition.

Depending on the weather and temperature, along with your pet’s activity and exercise level, they may need more water on some days than others.  Planning your dog’s walks early in the morning or late in the evening helps keep you both cooler.  Choosing shady paths versus being in direct sunlight will also help your pup from overheating on walks. Other than potty breaks, in extreme heat it’s best to stay indoors because it may be too hot for them to go outside.

***If you are concerned your pet is severely dehydrated, has heat exhaustion/heatstroke, or suffering from acute paw pad burns, contact your nearest animal emergency hospital for medical advice and care***

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