Dehydration is caused when dogs loss to much body fluids. Minerals called electrolytes are also lost when the dog becomes dehydrated. Dehydration is a very serious health risk when it occurs in any animal, dogs included. Since dogs are unable to sweat they release excess heat by panting. Extensive panting, especially hard panting, can lead to dehydration.

The best way to handle dehydration is to avoid it altogether by making sure that plenty of water and adequate shelter are always available. Heat stoke is a common cause of dogs becoming dehydrated. Of course, other causes such as severe diarrhea, vomiting, and fevers can also cause dehydration

Heavy panting is generally the first sign that a dog might be becoming dehydrated. Other thing to check is the elasticity of the pet's skin and the condition of the dog's gums. Gently pinch a fold of skin on the dog's head or neck and watch closely how the skin in question reacts. A healthy dog's skin will quickly regain it's former shape, while dehydrated skin doesn't have the proper amount of fluid and will more slowly reform. The dog's gums should be moist and slick. If a dog is dehydrated the gums will be sticky and dry.

If the pet is showing signs of dehydration the first thing to do is to check the level of dehydration. More serious dehydration shouldn't be handled by an amateur, so if the situation appears serious seek out a veterinarian immediately. Veterinarians can provide more advanced solutions like IV fluids which amateurs don't have on hand. Dogs with a serious fluid loss can not drink enough water to correct the loss of electrolytes and fluid. If dogs drink to much water they will vomit and loss even more fluids.

Take it slow when you try to rehydrate a dog. If possible, use an electrolyte supplement rather than plain water. Pedialyte is a good choice for treatment, avoid sport drinks that have sugar as they can cause diarrhea. Give the dog small amounts of the fluid at very frequent intervals. If the dog is unable to drink on its own, use a medicine syringe and place the fluids in its mouth.

In addition to dog food selection, Taylor Martinerin writes about selecting an outdoor dog bed or a waterproof dog bed.

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Written by Taylor Martinerin using tags: avoiding dog dehydration, dog advice, dog dehydration, dog dehydration care, dog health care, how to solve dog dehydration, Pets