Staying Hydrated and Healthy . . .
August can be one of the hottest months of the year in the Carolinas and other places as well. We need to be very observant of our dog's daily needs. Like humans, a pet needs ample water to remain at optimum health, and ensuring adequate hydration is vital. For a dog to be properly hydrated a daily water intake of one-half to one ounce of water per pound of body weight is what most veterinarians agree as a standard rule of thumb. That amount should be increased if your dog is very active and exercises vigorously.
A dog should always have access to fresh drinking water on walks, in parks, and on running or biking trails. Lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, and even standing water can harbor numerous bacteria that can make a dog sick, especially if there is chemical runoff from local farm fields, or if herbicides and/or insecticides are present. Even pouring fresh water onto the ground for a dog at lap up can be dangerous due to residual chemicals and bacteria.
Do you know how to gage your dog's hydration level?
I really didn't until now.
To gage your pet's hydration:
- Gently pull up the "scruff" skin on your dog's neck and then turn loose. If the skin doesn't spring back to its original spot, your dog is not getting enough water.
- Check your dog's gums. Gums that look drier than normal and are a bit discolored are a strong indication of under-hydration.
- Excessive and sometimes uncontrollable panting can mean a dog is overheated and is on the way to becoming dehydrated.
A happy - healthy dog makes everyone happy!
About the author:
Teresa Harris is a Lake Norman Residential Real Estate Broker who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in Lake Norman and surrounding counties. Please visit www.TeresaMHarris.com for your relocation and/or your local needs.
Teresa Harris - Holbrooks Real Estate, Inc. - 704-458-1807 - Teresa@TeresaMHarris.com
Copyright © 2008 By Teresa Harris, All Rights Reserved...*Lead Your Dog To Water . . .*
Thanks, Teresa. It has been close to 100 degrees in Tennessee this week and I have noticed my Westie panting more than usual. I appreciate the useful information!
Thanks for the great post. I care deeply about animal welfare. I was very sad today to visit a home, an empty REO with a built-in tank. The tank was the dirtiest I have ever seen. As I was leaving I saw movement. There was one huge fish moving. Perhaps it has eaten the smaller ones. Wonder how long until it suffocates or starves? I have no equipment or ability to clean the tank, but I feel sorry for the fish.
We have two goldens, and one drinks alot more water than the other. In the evening we play with them and the hose and they have a BLAST playing and drinking water!
Phylis:Thanks for stopping by! I have two westie's!! When you get a minute can please post a picture of your westie?!?!?!?! They are special.... from one westie owner to another...........
Vickie: Thanks for stopping by too! It's a shame what some agents are finding in these houses. I am sorry that you had to see what you did the other day. It is so senseless. Take care!
BethAnn: Thanks for coming by! I bet everyone has a great time playing in the water. What a nice way to enjoy each other. Take care!
Always a great reminder and for those who don't know how to "read" their pets. A really good post. thanks.
Bethany: Thanks for stopping by! You never know someone may be first time parents and really don't know this stuff. Take care!
Oooh. I had no idea. I was keeping my parents dog for 2 months and she panted like crazy. It drove me nuts. Her water bowl was always full. I started to think she must be hot and she had a thick coat of fur (Eskimo Spitz) so I took her to get groomed and had her shaved down. I think it was a huge relief for her even though she is an indoor dog.
Michele: Thanks for coming by! Yep, there's nothing like having a SUMMER DO! Take care!
Thanks for the tip. I agree that the summer heat can drain us of our h20 but don't forget the h20 in the winter months too.