Vet Care for Dogs, Cats and Many Other Animals

Is Your Dog Dehydrated? Know The Signs

by Calvin Newman

You can get dehydrated as a human, and so can your dog. You know how you feel and can do something about it, but your dog can't tell you how he's feeling. If he's dehydrated, you have to know and understand the signs your dog is exhibiting. Read on for signs of dehydration to keep and eye out for.

Vomiting And Diarrhea 

If your dog is vomiting, has diarrhea, or doesn't have any appetite at all, it could be a number of different things going on, but it could also be dehydration. These signs along with others could indicate dehydration. Keep an eye on your dog and try to give your dog water in small amounts. Also give your dog plain white rice and chicken, but only in small quantities to see if your dog will keep the food down. Give your dog more food if he is able to keep it down.

Heavy Panting

Heavy panting could be due to a few things including being over-exercised, having a fever, or being dehydrated. If your dog is panting heavily, take your dog to a cool place and have him lay down to stay calm. If your dog continues to pant heavily, try to give him water in small quantities. Don't allow him to drink too much, as he could throw it up. Only give small amounts and keep an eye on him to be sure he calms down. If he is continuing to pant heavily, take him to the veterinarian right away.

Lethargic Or Unsteady

If your dog is lethargic, is only wanting to lay down, is not being himself, or is unsteady on his feet, it may be due to dehydration. Keep your dog in a safe, cool place in your home and try to keep him as calm as possible. If he is unsteady on his feet, he could injure himself if he falls or collapses in the wrong place. Get your dog some water and continue to check on him. If this behavior doesn't change, get your dog to the veterinarian.

Be sure your dog has plenty of clean water to drink throughout the day and has access to shade if they are outside. Keep an eye on your dog, and if he is exhibiting any strange behaviors that you aren't sure about, get him to the veterinarian right away for a thorough exam and checkup. Dehydration can worsen quickly if you don't notice the signs right away and do something to help treat it.

For more information, contact a local vet clinic like Pittsburgh Spay & Vaccination Clinic

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