Did you know that dogs can die from severe dehydration? While cases of dehydration are high during summer, it can affect dogs at any time of the year. Here are some ways to protect your dog from dehydration and its complications.

• If your dog is on a kibble diet, make sure he has plenty of access of clean fresh water.

• Take your dog on outdoor excursions or let him participate in physical activities during the cooler hours of the day – early morning or early evening.

• Make sure to bring drinking water for your dog when you go for walks or any outdoor activity. There are water bottles for dogs that you can get from pet stores.

A dog that is seriously dehydrated has a dry nose, sunken eyes, and skin that lack elasticity. Try pressing your dog’s gums and see if the color comes back quickly after the pressure has been released. When the color comes back slowly, this can be a sign that your dog may be dehydrated. Take your pet to your Leesburg, VA veterinary clinic for proper veterinary attention as soon as possible. Learn more here.