July is National Pet Hydration Awareness Month! With hot Summer temperatures and a lot of water activities to cool down, it is important to keep an eye out for your pet. You want to make sure your pet is hydrated, prevent dehydration, and know the signs of water intoxication.
Fun Fact: Your pet’s body, both dogs and cats, is made up of 80% water. Humans are only 50-60% water.
3 Tips to Keep Your Pet Hydrated:
- Offer fresh water at all times. Have multiple water bowls available in the areas where your pet hangs out the most. Some pets prefer a fountain that keeps water running and fresh.
- Put broth or ice cubes in the water bowl to entice more drinking.
- Add water to their food at meals to increase daily water intake.
Signs your pet is dehydrated:
- Loss of appetite
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Excessive panting
- Decreased skin elasticity
- Sunken eyes
- Lethargy
What to do if you think your cat or dog is dehydrated?
- Perform the skin test
- Take him/her to the vet immediately
- Provide fresh, clean water daily
- Monitor your pet’s water intake
How to Perform the Skin Test!
1. Gently grab a loose fold of skin on the back of your pet’s neck or in between the shoulder blades and release.
- If the skin snaps back into place, your pet should be okay. If the skin slowly returns to place, your pet could be dehydrated and may need to be checked by a vet.
Water intoxication in dogs isn’t very common, but it’s something to keep in mind, especially during water play. It can occur when a dog swallows a large amount of water too quickly, which may upset their electrolyte balance. It’s rare, but worth being aware of if your dog loves to chase sprinklers, bite at the hose, or swim for long periods without breaks.
Summer is all about sunshine, fun, and making memories, but don’t forget to keep an eye on your furry family members! While they love joining in on your adventures, our pets need extra care during the hot summer days. Make sure they stay cool, hydrated, and safe so everyone can enjoy the best of summer together!
