Fun Ways To Keep Fido Hydrated

July is Pet Hydration Month! This is a very important topic. Dehydration goes hand in paw with heat exhaustion and heat stroke for our canine companions. One of the most important things you can do for your loyal pet at this (scorching) time of year is simply make sure he is staying hydrated. A Sarasota, FL vet lists some cute and fun options for that below. 

Water Bowls

First and foremost, make sure Fido always has cool, clean water. You may want to set out more than one water station, especially if you have more than one pooch and/or a large house. To make these look cute, put them in pretty plant pots or urns.

Fountains

Does Fido like to splash and play in water? Get him an outdoor fountain! Many of these spray water when dogs step on a pad, which is of course adorable to watch. You can also get basic drinking fountains. These are less entertaining but still great at keeping your pup’s water intake up.

Ice Cream

Sharing your own ice cream isn’t a good idea: it’s got too much fat and sugar for Fido. However you can make your pooch his own. You can use nearly any pet-safe ingredient. That includes anything from peanut butter to ripe banana to pureed pumpkin. Ask your vet for tips.

Broth Cubes 

Sodium-free broth is great for hydration. Freeze some into ice cubes for Fido. For extra tail wags, drop pieces of kibble, crushed-up dog treats, or chew sticks into the ice cube tray, Dixie cup, or mold you’re using before filling it with broth or water. You can also just offer your canine buddy a bowl of plain chilled broth. 

Kong Toys 

Kong toys have been keeping pups entertained and (hopefully) out of trouble for years. You can freeze all sorts of things in them, such as ripe bananas, peanut butter, or pureed pumpkin.

Slushies

Another thing you can do is make Fido his own slushie. Pour some canned dog food or organic (garlic-free) gravy over some crushed ice, and let your canine pal have at it. 

Bonus For Puppies: Frozen Cloth

Is Fido still in his toddler stage? He may enjoy having a frozen washcloth to gnaw on. Just supervise him, and make sure he can’t choke.

As your Sarasota, FL animal clinic, we’re here to help. Call us anytime!