Keeping Your Dog Hydrated

The dog days of summer are upon us. Ontarians often hear quite a bit about the importance of keeping pets warm, but we don’t always hear as much about keeping them cool. Fido can easily overheat in summer! Keeping your dog hydrated is always important, but it’s especially crucial in hot weather. A Burlington, ON vet offers tips on doing that in this article.

If you have a large house, a yard, and/or more than one pooch, you’ll want to set out a few different water stations. (Tip: put a water bowl in a plant urn to make it more attractive.) A word to the wise: don’t use glass bowls on wooden decks. That can actually start fires!

Does Fido enjoy ice cubes? While you don’t want to give him too many, you can offer him a few on sweltering days. You may also want to put some in his water bowl when it’s hot out.

In summer, opt for snacks with high moisture content. You can make Fido pupsicles by putting bits of kibble, dog biscuits, chew sticks, and/or shredded meat in an ice cube tray or waxed-paper cups. Pour water or sodium-free broth over them and freeze. Done!

Does your pup slurp his bowl dry in seconds? Get him an automated waterer!

Speaking of sodium-free broth, it’s actually a great snack, as it contains electrolytes. Offer Fido a chilled bowl of it as a treat. Or, freeze some into cubes for your pooch.

Fido will dehydrate quickly by walking and running on really hot days. In summer, walk and play with him in the morning and evenings, when it’s cooler out.

Whenever you take Fido off your property, always bring water along. Keep a gallon of water and a collapsible bowl in your car, so you always have some with you.

Do you have a yard for your canine buddy to control? If so, consider getting Fido a pet fountain. There are some that spray water when Fido steps on a pad. This will not only keep your pup hydrated, it can also entertain him!

Please contact us with any questions or concerns about your pet’s diet, health, or care. As your Burlington, ON animal hospital, we’re dedicated to keeping your furry best friend in great health!