July is National Pet Hydration Month and it is important to keep our furry friends hydrated and healthy all year round. Water plays a vital role in your pet’s overall health and well-being. During this month, we celebrate and raise awareness about the importance of pet hydration. It’s not always that easy to know when your pet needs water or what needs to be done to prevent dehydration. Therefore, in this blog post, I’ll share some tips and tricks to help keep your pets healthy and hydrated all year round.
Always keep a fresh supply of water available
The first thing you need to do to make sure your pets stay hydrated is to always have water available. Your pets should never go without water, especially during hot and sunny days. Make sure the water is fresh and clean and change the water frequently to keep it from getting stale. You can also add ice cubes to the water to keep it cool. On walks or long trips, bring a water bottle and a portable container to give them a drink. Consider trying a PetSafe Drinkwell Fountain!
It is important to give your pet enough water throughout the day, depending on the size and breed. Cats and small dogs may need about an ounce of fluid per pound of body weight each day, while larger breeds may require up to 2 ounces per pound. If you’re unsure how much water your pet needs, speak with your veterinarian.
Monitor your pet’s water intake
Different pets have different water requirements, and their water intake depends on various factors such as age, breed, weight, activity level, and the weather. One key to keeping your pets hydrated is to observe and monitor their water intake. If you notice that your pet isn’t drinking enough or consuming much more than usual, there may be an underlying issue. Regardless of the cause of dehydration, it’s important to seek veterinary assistance as soon as possible.
Wet food is another way to keep your pet hydrated
In addition to providing fresh and clean water, it’s also important to give your pet the right kind of food. Certain foods contain more water and can help keep them hydrated. For example, canned wet food contains up to 78% of moisture, while dry kibble has only around 10%.
Wet food, especially canned varieties, can be a great way to supplement your pet’s water intake, as it contains a lot more moisture than dry food. Wet food is not only beneficial during hot weather, but it’s a great option for pets with medical conditions or older pets who may have dental problems and have difficulty chewing or swallowing dry food.
Adding frozen treats to your pet’s diet is also a great way to keep them hydrated. These treats can be made with either fresh fruits and vegetables or canned food, providing essential water content for your fur-babies. Frozen treats are also fun for your pets and can help them cool off during hot days. You can also top off your pet’s food with toppers that add hydration, like raw goat’s milk or bone broth. It provides hydration and extra nutrients!
Provide shade and cool spaces
During summer, pets are prone to heatstroke and dehydration, and the most common cause of these issues is exposure to hot and humid weather. Make sure your pets have access to shaded regions and cool spots to rest during the day. You can also use fans or air conditioning to keep your pets cool.
Aside from providing your pets with fresh water and the right kind of food, there are other measures that can be taken to ensure their health and hydration. For instance, exercising in cooler temperatures such as early morning or late evening can help prevent dehydration. During walks, make sure that your pet takes breaks in the shade and has a chance to cool down. Read our blog, 7 Hot Weather Products You Didn’t Know You Needed, to learn more about products that will help your pet have a safe and fun summer!
Know the symptoms and signs of dehydration
To prevent dehydration, you should be aware of the symptoms. The symptoms of dehydration in pets include:
- dry gums
- lethargy
- sunken eyes
- vomiting
- diarrhea
If you notice these symptoms, it’s essential to take immediate action and provide your pet with a drink of fresh water immediately and consult your veterinarian.
In conclusion, hydration is vital for pets, just as it is for humans. National Pet Hydration Month in July is a great reminder to keep your pets healthy and well-hydrated all year round. It’s important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to keeping your pets hydrated; different pets have different requirements. It’s important to keep a fresh supply of water available and monitor their water intake. With the above guidelines and tips, your pet will have all the hydration it needs to live a healthy, happy life!
Related blogs: Keep Your Pet Safe with a Pet ID Tag, 7 Ways to Strengthen Your Bond With Your Pet During National Pet Month, What are Hot Spots on Dogs?, 7 Hot Weather Dog Products You Didn’t Know You Needed