We all know that it’s important to ramp up our hydration during the summer months. After all, it doesn’t take long before the heat and humidity begin to sap your reserves when you leave your home or office. That same caution is also essential for our furry friends, which is why July has been designated National Pet Hydration Awareness Month.
Here’s a fact most aren’t aware of. A dog’s body is made up of 80% water, while a human’s is about 55-60%. That means dehydration has an even more harmful effect on our best friends than on us. That means your pupper needs an ounce of water for every pound of their body weight, especially during the sweltering summer months.
7 Commons Signs of Pet Dehydration
It’s vital that you be able to recognize when your furball’s suffering from dehydration so that you can react quickly and appropriately. They include:
- Panting
- Lower energy levels
- Their appetite diminishes
- Lethargic behavior
- Dry nose or gums
- Dry-looking or sunken eyes
- Their skin is less elastic than usual
3 Ways to Keep Your Puppy Well Hydrated
There are simple things you can do to ensure your dog gets enough water. Here are our favorites:
- Fill their water bowl regularly
- Set an alarm
- Check their gums
When filling your pupper’s water bowl, be sure to pour out any residue and fill it with fresh water. It’s also a good idea to clean it regularly, especially if your water has minerals that build up. If you don’t use alarms to remind yourself to drink water, remind yourself to check your dog’s water bowl every time you refill your bottle or glass. Finally, regularly checking your pupper’s gums allows you to notice any adverse reactions early – making it easier to reverse the symptoms.
Keep Your Pup Safe and Healthy This Summer
Making these small changes a regular habit will go a long way to keeping your best friend healthy in the brutal heat and humidity of a Southwest Florida summer. Here at Pampered Pet Resorts, we make sure that every one of our guests has regular access not only to fresh water but also to our splash pad. We also make sure that a Pack Member is on-site 24/7, 365. That means that their bowl is full if your pup wakes up from chasing rabbits in a dream and needs a thirst-quenching lap or twelve of water.
We invite you to contact us to learn more about our boarding and daycare options. We promise to take care of your pupper as if they were our own.
