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Watering dog
Watering your dog is an important part of nutrition. Compared to lack of fat, protein, carbs, or vitamins and minerals, the lack of water (dehydration) will destroy first. Losing only 10 to 15% of water can result in a dog’s death or being very ill.
Losing water occurs naturally as dogs pant, sweat through their paws, urinating, and feces. Replacing this water and watching for dehydration is paramount. Dehydration occurs when dogs lose too much water without replacing it.
Dehydration Signs
Dogs that are sick, pregnant, nursing, or old can dehydrate quickly. Watch for these symptoms: dry mouth, no appetite (not interested in food). Also, low energy, sunken eyes, excessive panting, or diarrhea.
Two Dehydration Tests
Skin elasticity – the skin between a dog’s shoulders should sink back to normal when gently lifted and released.
Color of gums – press gently on the gums until a white spot appears, remove your finger, the gum should return to normal color quickly.
Dog Dehydration and Diarrhea
Some health problems causing diarrhea are worms, viruses, or bacterial infections and lead to dehydration. Some diseases cause severe diarrhea and vomiting like parvovirus leading to dehydration. See your veterinarian for parasite treatments and regular vaccinations. Keep your furry friend away from old food and garbage.
Home Treatment
For minor dehydration after diarrhea or vomiting and rehydrate pooch by giving electrolytes, frozen popsicles with ingredients appropriate for a dog, beef or chicken broth (especially when not drinking). Another option when your dog is not drinking is wet food to get some fluids replaced. Always consult with your vet for advice.
How Much Water?
Note how much water your dog is drinking by how much disappears in the water bowl. Refilling the water bowl when spilled it to the normal daily level. A good suggestion is 1 ounce of water for each dog pound (I couldn’t resist). A 20-pound dog needs 20 ounces of water daily.
Keep Water Available
Dogs spill and knock over water bowls, getting one that can’t be will save you time, cleaning, and worry. Cleaning the water bowl and filling it with cool water daily. Adding ice when hot or your dog is heavily panting. The toilet is not a good source of water, keep the lid closed when not in use.
Vet Consultation/Visit
Always check with your veterinarian to be sure. Severe dehydration may require IV fluids for recovery. Possibly an overnight stay or other measures. You want to keep your friend healthy and happy.