Water and Dog Dehydration

It is July and it is hot outdoors. How do we keep our furry friends safe? Water.

It is the key ingredient to keeping our dog’s bodies cooled down. Sure, they need water for digestion purposes and bodily functions, but it’s also critical to cooling their bodies.

Sometimes we lose track of how much our dogs are drinking. Then we worry about dehydration.

Here are a few ways to tell if your dog is properly hydrated or not.

• Grab a fold of skin from between the dog’s shoulders. Pull the skin upwards and then let go. The skin should immediately return to its original place. If its elasticity is lacking, so is water.

• Is your dog’s nose dry? It shouldn’t be.

• Excessive panting. Often a sign of dehydration or stress.

• Dog isn’t interested in eating.

• Vomiting and diarrhea can be attributed to dehydration or other causes. If you suspect a problem, or heat stroke, you need to get your dog to the vet.

Does your dog love ice cubes? Mine does. Some people flavor them, but our Tessa Marie loves them plain. She thinks they are doggie-popsicles!