How to Avoid Dehydration in Dogs
When it comes to keeping dogs healthy, we often think of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Water, however, is more essential than any of these. After all, your dog cannot sweat (except through its paws) and is covered in warm fur, on top of the air temperature and strong sun. A dog door is great for giving them the freedom to go indoors to cool off.
Dogs lose water every time they pant and relieve themselves. Losing just 10% to 15% of water in their body can be potentially fatal. To protect your dog, track how much water is in their bowl and provide enough to drink. The quantity of water needed depends on their weight. Most dogs need an ounce water for each pound they weigh, so a 10-pound dog needs 10 ounces per day, a 20-pound dog needs 20 ounces, and so on.1
If your dog is spending lots of time outside on a hot day:
- Bring along a container of cool drinking water.
- Add ice to a water bowl kept outside.
- Provide them with an electrolyte solution.
A steady supply of electrolytes ensures your dog’s cells stay nourished. Otherwise, an imbalance can make them sick and damage their kidneys and other organs. Electrolytes can also help dogs with mild signs of dehydration such as panting, vomiting, or diarrhea. If your pet’s condition worsens, they may require IV fluids to rehydrate.
Dehydration can also be prevented by limiting your dog’s activity and exercise during the hottest hours. On extremely hot days, keep them indoors altogether. Also, restrict access to inedible items and garbage cans to ensure your dog doesn’t ingest something that can get them sick.
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A pet door can help your dog or cat avoid dehydration in summer. You can install a pet door insert and even electronic pet doors that provide your pets with freedom and protection. To inquire about maintenance-free products for small, medium, and large pets, as well as microchip/magnetic controlled-entry models, call Australia Pet Doors at +61-437-644-330 or contact us on the web today.
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