July is Pet Hydration Awareness Month. This is the time to show pet owners how important proper hydration is for your pet. Compared to the human body that is made of 60% of water, a pet’s body is made of 80% water. This means that your pet is at a greater risk of dehydration or heat exhaustion during the warmer months of the year. There are several things you can do to ensure that your pet is properly hydrated during the summer.
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1) Get Familiar with the Signs of Dehydration
There are several signs to look out for to know when your pet is dehydrated. Knowing the signs of dehydration can prevent your pet from getting sick.
Common signs of dehydration include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of energy
- Excessive panting
- Loss of appetite
- Dry eyes
- Decreased skin elasticity
- Dry mouth
If you notice any of the signs of dehydration listed above, don’t hesitate to contact your vet.
2) Know the Amount of Water Your Pet Needs
When it comes to the amount of water, your pet should get at least one ounce of water for each pound of body weight. Factors, such as temperature and how active your pet is, may result in your pet needing more water. Be sure to monitor your pet’s water intake closely during the summer months.
3) Keep A Supply of Clean Fresh Water
As a pet owner, having fresh water readily available for your pet is important for its health. You should never deprive your pet of an opportunity to drink fresh water. Be sure to leave enough water for your pet if you have to leave for any period of time. This will prevent your pet from running out of water before you get back. Also, if you plan on spending time outside or taking a road trip with your pet, be sure to take a water bottle with you.
4) Add Water to Your Pet’s Food
Unlike human food that can contain a lot of water, pet food does not have high water content. If your pet is not getting enough water from drinking, adding water to its food is a good way to boost the amount of water intake.
5) Take Your Pet Outside During the Coolest Part of The Day
Taking your pet out the coolest part of the day can help to prevent dehydration. During the summer, mornings, evenings, and nights are the coolest parts of the day. Your pet is at a higher risk of exhaustion and dehydration if it’s outside during the middle of the day. If you must take your pet out during the hottest part of the day, make sure that it has access to a nicely shaded area.
During National Pet Hydration Month (and the entire year), it’s important to make sure your pet has plenty of water to avoid getting dehydrated. Consider the tips discussed above to get familiar with the signs of dehydration and know how to help prevent dehydration. Happy National Pet Hydration Awareness Month!