If you have ever experienced dehydration, you must know it isn’t the best feeling in the world. Dehydration leads to both physical & mental stress. Humans can convey how they feel when they are not feeling so well, we have the liberty to express when we are happy, sad or sick but our pets don’t speak the common tongue as us. As their parents, it is our responsibility to understand & take preventive measures if need be.
Dehydration is one of the most common issues that a being deals with, let us understand it a little further.
What Is Dehydration?
Dehydration occurs when the body loses more water than it is retaining. Panting, breathing, urinating, & defecating contribute to normal water loss & only suitable liquid consumption can make up for it.What Indicates Your Pet Is Dehydrated?
There are several symptoms that can help you figure out whether your little pupper is dehydrated or not. A few that top the list & are easily noticeable are:- Loss of skin elasticity
- Low appetite
- Vomiting with or without diarrhoea
- Reduced energy levels
- Heavy panting
- Sunken & drier than normal eyes
- Dry nose
- Dry & sticky gums
- Thick saliva
How To Prevent Or Address It?
The very first step towards the issue is to ensure you prevent it first-hand. It is generally believed that your pet needs a daily amount of about 3.5 to 4.5 ounces of water per 5 pounds of their body weight. You can weigh them or consult their vet in order to ensure they get their needful supply of water.In case of dehydration, add small amounts of chicken or tuna broth to their water to provide a burst of needed energy & water to them. Ensure you give them wet food instead of dry food this will ensure they get the optimum amount of hydration at all points during the day. Other than that you can adhere to:
- Adding ice cubes to their bowl to cool down their body.
- Give them electrolyte supplements (Consult their vet first)
- Encourage them to drink water through little tricks
- Test a different bowl, they might not be liking their current one due to size, material etc.
These simple steps can ensure your little wagger can have a happy summertime & have a chill playtime! Keep yourself & your pet hydrated because drinking water can prove to prevent various other diseases & an ample amount of water never hurt anyone!
Please note, these are some simple tricks suggested to monitor your household pets' health. These tips should, under no circumstances, be taken or followed as medical advise. In case your pet is facing any concerning issues, we always recommend that you get in touch with your vet for proper medical guidance. Happy Pawrenting!