How to treat dehydration in dogs at home?
To treat dehydration in dogs at home, start by ensuring they always have access to fresh, clean water. Encourage your dog to drink by offering ice cubes, adding water or low-sodium broth to their food, or using a water fountain. Wet dog food, which contains more moisture than dry food, can also help increase their fluid intake.
For mild dehydration, offer small amounts of water frequently throughout the day. If your dog is hesitant to drink, try using a syringe (without the needle) to gently administer water. You can also make the water more appealing by flavoring it with a little bit of low-sodium broth.
To monitor your dog’s hydration levels, use Petnox-10 urine test strips. These strips can help you assess their hydration status by measuring specific parameters in their urine, such as concentration. Follow the instructions on the test strips to collect a urine sample and check for signs of dehydration, like concentrated urine.
If your dog shows signs of severe dehydration, such as dry gums, sunken eyes, or lethargy, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian immediately. Severe dehydration often requires more intensive treatment, such as intravenous fluids, which can only be administered by a veterinary professional.