Dehydration in humans or animals can be deadly if not treated or taken care of immediately. Animals especially need to be watched carefully if you suspect dehydration, as they aren't able to convey that they aren't feeling like themselves. If you have a dog, dehydration can occur easily, as they are active animals that will often continue to play despite the dehydration. This is especially true in certain breeds of dog as well. If your dog is an active dog and always wants to play but isn't drinking, dehydration may occur. To help your dog, read on for helpful tips.
1. Give Your Dog Access To Water
This may sound like a no-brainer, but if you are playing outside, you may forget about giving your dog water outside. Be sure you have a bowl outside and your dog is aware of where it is so they can get water to drink. Even if it's straight from the hose, be sure your dog has access to water and is drinking plenty of it. If it's a hot day outside, not only should your dog have enough water to drink, but it should be kept in the shade so it isn't too hot to drink. If your dog is kept inside for a big part of the day, make sure they have access to water during these times as well. Water will help to keep your dog hydrated and will also remove any toxins from their body. It's important that your dog is drinking enough water throughout the day.
2. Keep Them Cool
If your dog is dehydrated, they may be running pretty warm. Keep them cool by applying packs of ice or bags of frozen vegetables to their paw pads and the pit beneath their front and back legs. Get them to a cool area of your home if you can. If you are outside, or are away from home, get them to a shaded area where they can stay cool.
3. Watch For Vomiting Or Diarrhea
If your dog is dehydrated, they may have a hard time keeping anything down. Food may come right back out, as may water. Give your dog only small increments of food and water until they can keep these things down without getting sick. If this persists, make sure you get them to the veterinarian or the animal hospital right away, as the dehydration will only get worse.
If your dog is dehydrated, it's important to keep a close eye on them and get them the help they need so they is back to feeling like themselves again. Dehydration is a condition that can worsen rapidly if you aren't careful, so it's very important to get your dog to the veterinarian for an exam and treatment if you suspect they is suffering from dehydration.
For more information on recognizing and dealing with your dog's dehydration, talk to a veterinarian hospital near you.
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