National Pet Hydration Awareness Month

By | July 6, 2021
National Pet Hydration Awareness Month

We come across many health-related articles on the internet every day. So much information can be overwhelming and confusing at first, but repeating important health facts helps the message stick in our minds. The information eventually sinks in and allows us to make better decisions that sustain our survival. However, when it comes to our pets, we tend to become a bit lazy.

Despite how much we learn about pet health, it does not always receive the same level of attention as human health. This is why we are here to spread the word. 

The fact is both pets and people benefit a lot when a proper water intake is maintained. If not, both can suffer from dehydration, which can lead to serious and immediate health risks. While humans somehow can escape the danger of dehydration, it is quite difficult for pets.

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Pets’ bodies contain a higher amount of water than humans. Hence, keeping them hydrated is one of the most important aspects we cannot risk overlooking. This might surprise you that for every pound of their body weight, they need at least 1 ounce of water. Unfortunately, the majority of them do not, especially in the hot water.

This is why, to put the best foot forward on this National Pet Hydration Awareness Month, BestVetCare wants you to understand important points related to pet hydration in detail:

Tips to Keeping Your Pet Hydrated 

  1. Have fresh water at different places in the home. Provide several bowls in the places where your pet spends the most time. A fountain that keeps freshwater flowing is also preferred.
  2. To encourage more drinking, put broth or ice cubes in their water bowls.
  3. To maximize daily water consumption, add water to their meals.

Watch Out for These Dehydration Symptoms

  • Loss of skin elasticity
  • Loss of appetite
  • Vomiting 
  • Diarrhea
  • Lethargy and low energy levels
  • Panting
  • Sunken, dry-looking eyes
  • Dry nose
  • Dry, sticky gums
  • Thick saliva

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Promoting Pet Hydration Within Your Practice

If you are still wondering why pet hydration is a bigger deal now, then check out the fact – “Water makes up to 80 percent of a pet’s body, compared to 55 to 60% in humans.” Moreover, it can be challenging to understand your pet’s needs. That is why we have made some pointers to follow:

  1. Always have fresh supply of water. Some people avoid changing pet’s water. If floaters in your cup bother you, how can your pet be ok with it? Although pets aren’t as picky as humans, a clean supply of water will do more benefits than you can ever think.
  1. Make sure the water bowl is clean. It’s just as important to have a clean bowl as it is to have fresh water. To prevent bacteria development, wash water bowls regularly.
  1. Keep the momentums going. Do you have a pet that enjoys drinking from the tap? Pet fountains are designed keeping in mind their requirements. So if you are using a water fountain, remember to replace the filter and clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  1. Consider adding wet food or supplementing with fresh raw fruits or vegetables to increase their water intake.

To repeat what we have been emphasizing on, Pet hydration is important and should be taken seriously. Not to forget, you are responsible for the overall well-being of your animal. Moreover, it is always good to keep your pet’s well-being and comfort first. Cater to your pet’s needs and ensure that they are comfortable with their surroundings.

In the end, we and you together can ensure your pet to be well, happy and healthy!