48 THE QUEENS COURIER • PETS • JULY 20, 2017 FOR BREAKING NEWS VISIT WWW.QNS.COM
pets
A happy pet is a hydrated pet
It’s a warm summer day - the sun is
shining, the sky is blue and the scent of
blooming fl owers fi lls the air. As a pet
owner, you’re probably planning to take
your dog on a walk, maybe even several.
Meanwhile, your cat has found that sunny
space underneath the windowsill.
Sound familiar?
If so, then you already know how much
cats and dogs enjoy basking in the sun,
but just like people, over-exposure to heat
can cause our furry friends to become
varied versions of themselves. And too
oft en signs of dehydration, which frequently
appear in the form of lethargy,
dry mouth and loss of appetite, are confused
with run-of-the-mill exhaustion.
Considering all the things we do know
about our pets, it’s hard to believe that we
wouldn’t recognize the symptoms that
accompany something as serious as dehydration.
But the truth is that unless you
know which indicators to look for, it can
be easy to misdiagnose. Th at’s why the
experts at PetSafe have compiled a list
of tips and tricks for making sure your
pet is experiencing healthy hydration all
year long.
Keeping them hydrated
Water is without a doubt the single
most important resource you can provide
your animal, especially during hot summer
months. Whether outside or inside,
dogs and cats should consume around
one ounce of water per pound each day.
In other words, if you have a 20-pound
terrier or a 20-pound tomcat, they should
have access to at least 20 ounces of cool,
clean drinking water every day.
It’s also important to remember that
liquid can evaporate quickly in high temperatures,
so if your pet’s water source is
outside it’s best to check on the amount of
available water several times throughout
the day or consider purchasing an autofi
ll watering bowl like the Drinkwell(R)
Everfl ow Indoor/Outdoor Fountain by
PetSafe.
How do I detect dehydration in my pet?
Th e observable signs of dehydration
will frequently include one of more of the
following symptoms:
· Lack of skin elasticity. You can test
this by gently pinching or pulling some of
their skin. If it doesn’t return to a normal
position, your pet is likely dehydrated.
· Drop in energy levels
· Dry, sticky gums or foam around the
mouth
· Heavier than average panting
· Loss of appetite
· Sunken, dry eyes
· Vomiting
Treatment and prevention
If your dog or cat exhibits any of these
behaviors or symptoms, it’s important to
seek veterinary attention where they will
likely monitor the body temperature of
your pet.
To prevent dehydration, pet parents
should consider taking active measures
to encourage pets to drink more
water. Products like PetSafe Brand Pet
Fountains are designed to continually circulate
and fi lter water. Th is not only provides
dogs and cats with a steady source
of fresh water, but relieves owners of the
constant hassle of refi lling the bowl. Plus,
the sound of fl owing water tends to trigger
an animal’s desire to drink more.
With proper care and precaution, your
pet can enjoy every season - even summer
- while staying happy, healthy and hydrated.
Visit PetSafe.com to fi nd more great
tips, products and articles on pet care.
Courtesy BPT