Did you know that July is the hottest month throughout the country? PetSafe honors July as National Pet Hydration Awareness Month. Pet dehydration occurs quickly and can be dangerous before you know it. Continue reading to learn how to keep your pet safe and adequately hydrated this summer. 

As humans, we’re hyper-aware of how much water we should intake to ensure our bodies receive enough to function optimally. What about our pets? We are their sole caretakers, and they depend on us to ensure they receive the proper amount of water. If you are thinking about taking a drink of water, your pet is probably thirsty too!

How Much Water is Enough?

You may be wondering, how much water does my pet need daily? You aren’t the only one who’s questioning! Most pets don’t receive enough water, particularly during the hot summer months. A good rule of thumb is that your pet should consume one ounce of water per pound of body weight. If your pet weighs ten pounds, they should consume ten ounces of water daily. 

How to Get Your Pet to Drink More

How can you ensure your pet receives enough water each day? We’ve created some tips to ensure that your pet stays healthy and hydrated during the hot summer months.

• Set alarms to fill your pet’s water bowl. 
• Freeze ice cubes with your pet’s favorite snack. This way, if your four-legged friend isn’t big on drinking water, they’ll receive extra with a tasty treat!
• Add water to their food at mealtime. 
• Provide fresh water at all times. Your pet will be more opt to drink if their water is fresh!
• Set out several water bowls throughout the house. Whenever your pet is outside, ensure there is water within reach. Refresh their water frequently, so it’s cool and fresh. 

How to Tell if Your Pet is Dehydrated

Knowing the signs of dehydration is just as pertinent as keeping your pet’s water intake up. 

Perform the “skin turgor test” to check if your pet is dehydrated. Gently pinch and lift the skin between your dog or cat’s shoulder blades, then release it. If the skin quickly falls to its normal position, your pet is hydrated. Your pet is dehydrated if the skin stays in an upright “tent” position.  

Another simple test you can perform at home is examining your pet’s gums. Use your finger to touch their gums. Your pet is most likely dehydrated if their gums are dry, sticky, or discolored. A hydrated pet will have pink, moist gums. Other signs of dehydration include: sunken eyes, lethargy, loss of appetite, and depression. If your pet experiences any of these symptoms, immediately call your veterinarian. 

Click here to learn more about hydrating your pet and the symptoms of dehydration. 

Ways to Keep Your Pet Entertained Inside

Keeping your pet inside during high temperatures will help to prevent dehydration. Use that hot day to spend quality time with your pet and explore new ways to play indoors. Need some ideas? We have you covered!

• Break out a puzzle toy. Start with a beginner’s puzzle, so your dog doesn’t become frustrated. Mentally stimulating your dog will help release pent-up energy.
• Make a sweet summer snack! Freeze fruit into ice cubes; just make sure to steer clear of grapes and cherries. (as these can be toxic to your pet)
• Hang out on the couch and have a movie day. 
• Teach your dog or cat a new trick. Yes, cats can learn tricks too!
• Entertain your cat with a laser or wand toy.
• Improve your pet’s obedience skills! Work on commands such as sit, stay, and down.

Our pets depend on us for their well-being and safety. It’s up to us to protect them and keep them healthy. Practice these tips and tricks to keep your pet from harm’s way this summer!

Sources used:

https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-care/health-and-wellbeing/hydrate-your-cat-or-dog

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