{"id":1316,"date":"2019-07-24T21:33:56","date_gmt":"2019-07-24T21:33:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.animalmedical.net\/blog\/?p=1316"},"modified":"2019-07-24T21:33:56","modified_gmt":"2019-07-24T21:33:56","slug":"when-it-comes-to-pet-dehydration-prevention-is-key","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.animalmedical.net\/blog\/when-it-comes-to-pet-dehydration-prevention-is-key\/","title":{"rendered":"When It Comes to Pet Dehydration, Prevention Is Key"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Perhaps your pup\u2019s practice is to gulp down a few swallows of water after a walk or playtime \u2013 no more, no less. Sure, they might sneak a drink when you\u2019re not around, but really, how much are they drinking in a day?
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The best way to gauge pet hydration is to measure how much water you put in the bowl every morning vs. how much is left at night (if any). Of course, you\u2019ll have to subtract a few ounces for sloppy drinkers, those that love to splash, and evaporation. Only then can you know exactly<\/em> how much they\u2019re drinking, and whether or not it\u2019s enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

The Rule of Thumb for Pet Hydration<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

On average, a dog should drink about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight every day. In other words, a 25 pound pet needs approximately 3 cups of water<\/a> daily. This may seem like a lot, but think about how many times you bend down to pick up their bowl. It may very well be 2-3 times a day (especially if it gets a bit slimy in there!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Heat & Exertion<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Their daily consumption may change based on the season and activity level. For instance, in the heat of the summer, they may drink far more than during the coldest months of the year. Likewise, if they are running and playing more, they will need more hydration to replace what they lose during exercise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But They Don\u2019t Sweat<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s true, dogs don\u2019t sweat like humans, but they do secrete moisture from their paw pads to help them regulate internal body temperature. Panting is the primary method for cooling down, and you may notice saliva dripping from a thirsty pet\u2019s tongue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Little Sips<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Pet dehydration causes various symptoms, and it is incredibly important to stay on top of any of the following:
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