How To Keep Your Dog Hydrated

Did you know that July is Dog Hydration Month? Yes, it seems like there are holidays for everything, but this is an important way to raise awareness of the importance of keeping your dog hydrated (no matter the month). When the sun is high as are the temperatures and humidity it is a dangerous time for our dogs and cats. Your pets need access to cool, clean water at all times. If they are outdoors or indoors, make sure their water bowls are always filled and clean. 

Active dogs, those who love to hike and go on walks with you need to have access to water while you're on your walks. Carry a bottle of water big enough for the two of you and don't forget to carry a water bowl for your dog. Don't wait to give your dog water until he is panting and his tongue is hanging out. Stop every ten minutes (or fewer if it's extremely hot and humid) and offer your dog a drink of water. Heat stroke is dangerous and could be deadly for your pet and keeping him hydrated could save his life. 

How to keep your dog hydrated

Dogs love to be with their humans whether you're relaxing indoors or if you're outside having an adventure or relaxing in a park. No matter the weather and where you are, here are ways to keep your dog safe in the heat -- in addition to keeping him hydrated. 

1. Walk your dog in the morning before the day gets too hot. 
2. Walk your dog after the sun has gone down. 
3. No matter when you walk your dog, if you're walking on a sidewalk or pavement, check the temperature with your hand. If you can't keep your hand on the pavement for five seconds without it causing pain, don't let your dog walk on it. Hot pavement can burn his paws. 
4. Keep your dog in the shade. If you take her on a picnic with you, make sure there is shade. 
5. White and light colored dogs benefit from having dog safe sunscreen put on their noses and even on their skin. 
6. Water. Water. Water. We cannot say it enough. Your dog needs access to water. Even if you don't think it's hot, it is probably hot for your dog. 
7. NEVER leave your dog in a car. The temperatures inside a car, even with the windows cracked open, rise rapidly and your dog could quickly suffer heatstroke and the consequences could be deadly. Leave your dog home when you're running errands or make sure he is in the car with another human and that he is cool and the air conditioner is running. 

If there are feral cats in your neighborhood, consider leaving a bowl of water out for them to drink from. Some people even leave water bowls out for the wildlife in their neighborhood because when there has been no rain, wild animals seeking water. Fill the bird baths and watch your feathered friends flock to your yard to enjoy the treat you've given them.