Can dogs also suffer from dehydration? Absolutely. Just like humans, it is quite common for dogs to suffer from dehydration if they do not get enough fluids. Dogs need water to ensure their bodies are functioning properly. If your dog is dehydrated, their health will deteriorate. So, you should be aware of what to give a dehydrated dog. Dehydration happens when your dog loses more water and electrolytes than they are taking in, subsequently causing some serious issues with their digestion, joints, body temperature, and internal organs. Dehydration can cause several health issues like unconsciousness, and kidney failure, and can be even life-threatening in some extreme cases. This is common during strenuous outdoor activities such as playing or running and in hot summer months. But not to worry as it is quite easy to recognize and prevent canine dehydration. In this blog, I have provided some proven ways what to give a dehydrated dog to keep them hydrated.
What To Give a Dehydrated Dog: Some Proven Ways to Rehydrate a Dog at Home
There are a lot of ways that you can try to avoid dehydration in your dog. To help in keeping your dog hydrated while they are experiencing severe diarrhea and vomiting offer your dog an electrolytic solution till they feel better.
Here are some proven ways to keep your buddy hydrated.
- Offer your dog clean and fresh water
The most effective and obvious way to help rehydrate your beloved paw-friend is by offering them an ample supply of clean and fresh drinking water. Ensure that you fill their water bowls with clean water and are within their reach so that they can quench their thirst whenever required. Also, check your dog’s water bowl regularly and replace them to maintain proper cleanliness and hygiene for your canine companion.
- Provide them with wet food
If your fur baby is on a dry diet only, they are missing the natural hydration benefits of wet dog food. Adding more wet foods to their regular diet is an effective and easy way to help rehydrate them. It will also ensure overall well-being and optimal hydration for your beloved companion. If your dog is not a big drinker, consider adding some wet dog food to their diet after consulting your veterinarian. Wet foods provide necessary moisture and help replenish the lost fluid keeping your fir baby healthy and hydrated. Make sure you feed them high-quality well canned food that is formulated specifically to meet their nutritional requirements based on their breed and age.
- Offer your dog fresh frozen treats
Creating your own DIY frozen dog treats with fruits like mixing water with frozen watermelon, cucumber, apple or plain ice cubes can help your dog cool down on hot days and at the same time give them much-needed fluids. These refreshing and tasty treats will help induce them to consume more fluids adding a touch of flavor and excitement to their day. Make sure to provide only small pieces at a time as large quantities can cause digestive issues.
- Go for Drinking Fountains
For pet owners, drinking fountain-style products have now become extremely popular especially if you are gone for a longer period. They are great for attracting dogs to drink water. The fountains run fresh water continuously and they have filters so that the water does not become stagnant and is fresh always.
- Offer homemade rehydrating treats
You can make some homemade rehydrating treats for your dog. Apart from being a fun activity, this is a wonderful way of encouraging them to drink more water. Go for ingredients that are safe for dogs like vegetables and fruits that have high water content. Vegetables like celery and cucumbers are delicious and also contain moisture which makes them a great choice to aid in rehydrating your dog on a hot day. Moreover, zucchini and carrots can be a satisfying and crunchy treat that also adds a nutritious twist to your dog’s snack time.
- Go for bigger bowls
You must consider placing bigger or more water bowls for your dog, especially during the summer months. Also, make sure the bowl you prove has enough grip and is weighted so that your dog can easily turn it over.
Treatment of Dehydration in Your Dog at a Vet Clinic
If you think your dog is severely dehydrated, the first thing you should do is contact your veterinarian particularly if you are unsure about the dehydration level. After thoroughly assessing the underlying cause of your dog’s dehydration, your vet will construct a treatment plan that is appropriate to that condition. Many severely dehydrated dogs are in shock when you bring them into a vet clinic. The main treatment for your dog’s dehydration is offering them the fluids that they need. Your vet will first calculate the amount of fluid your fur friend has lost to prescribe the exact amount of fluid therapy. To stabilize their vascular circulatory system, your vet will need sufficient tools apart from just water content. If your dog has mild dehydration, you can treat it with access to clean and fresh water, and often your dog will drink that on their own. However, moderate to severe dehydration in dogs can debilitate them and they might not be able to drink on their own easily. Generally, fluid therapy is slowly administered through injection either intravenously or subcutaneously. The most efficient method for rehydration is an IV. This is done in a vet clinic with a catheter and the veterinarian monitors it closely.
Preventing dehydration in your dog
Now that you are aware of what to give a dehydrated dog, you can take action as soon as possible. Following the tips mentioned above, you can keep your dog healthy and hydrated every time. Be aware of the signs of dehydration and if in doubt, it is always better to consult with a veterinarian who can provide the best advice for your dog’s individual needs. If left untreated, dehydration can be fatal. So, it is important to take immediate action and visit your vet as soon as you notice any signs of dehydration in your dog.
FAQs
How can I treat the dehydration of my dog at home?
If your canine is mildly dehydrated offer your dog small quantities of water. If your dog is suffering from severe or continuous bouts of diarrhea and vomiting, contact your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause.
How long can it take to rehydrate a dehydrated dog?
1 to 2 ounces every 2 hours can be a good start to hydrate your dog. Don’t let them over-drink. If you do not notice any improvement in 6-8 hours, it is time to visit your veterinarian. In case of severe dehydration, do not waste time.
Can I put ORS on my dog?
Do not give your dog a huge volume of ORS. The correct way of giving ORS to any dog is by using a small syringe. Start by giving approximately 0.5 ml/kg of your dog’s body weight. Provide them with the same quantity every two hours until you are sure your dog can drink more without throwing up.
Can my dog drink glucon D?
Let your dog drink maximum water. You can mix electral or glucon D in water. Contact your vet because replenishing body fluids via Intravenous drip is vital in case of a serious heatstroke.
