Your pooch needs constant hydration to stay healthy, and yet it can be difficult to spot the signs that they're not getting as much fluids as they need.
A variety of factors can make your dog lose fluids too quickly, including vomiting, diarrhea, and heat stroke.
If your pet is unwell, here are some signs that dehydration is at the root of the problem.
1. A dry nose
Touch your dog's nose. Ideally, the nose is cold and wet. If it is dry, your dog is more than likely dehydrated.
2. Loose skin
The most common symptom of dehydration is the loss of elasticity in the skin. When pulled lightly, the skin will not readily come back to its original place.
3. Lethargy
If your pet is suffering from dehydration, he will be sleeping a lot more than usual, not want to play and be generally zapped for energy.
4. Loss of appetite
A dog’s appetite will virtually vanish when they’re dehydrated. Keep an eye on your dog’s eating patterns and very importantly, any weight loss that might occur.
5. Dry gums
Another symptom of dehydration is xerostomia, in which the gums lose moistness and become dry and sticky, and the saliva becomes thick. Check your dog's gums. The gums should be wet, like the nose. If they feel sticky and somewhat dry, meaning the dog is not producing enough saliva, the dog needs a drink.
6. Sunken eyes
When a dog is severely dehydrated, his eyes will sink in and may become cloudy or yellow.
What to do now
If there is moderate dehydration and the dog is not vomiting, you can treat the dog with an electrolytic solution at a rate of 1-2ml per kilogram of the dog's body weight per hour. Electrolyte-enhanced waters may be of assistance as well.
If your dog is suffering from severe dehydration however, seek immediate medical attention. Your vet will be able to administer intravenous fluids to avoid further loss of fluids and to replace the current loss.
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