05/28/2024
WATER INTOXICATION
Working Dog Magazine
Wet but Wary: How to Safeguard Your Dog from Water Intoxication
As many dog lovers know, water activities can be both fun and beneficial for our canine companions. From swimming in lakes to participating in dock diving events, these activities offer excellent exercise opportunities and are a wonderful way for our dogs to cool down, especially during the warmer months. However, there’s a lesser-known risk associated with dogs and water activities: water intoxication.
Water intoxication, or hyponatremia, occurs when dogs ingest excessive amounts of water in a short period of time. This sudden influx of water can drastically reduce sodium levels, which disrupts electrolyte balance and can lead to serious, even fatal, health issues.
Signs of Water Intoxication
Recognizing the early signs of water intoxication can be crucial for the timely treatment of this condition. In severe cases, it can lead to seizures, coma, and even death.
Symptoms often include:
Lethargy or Tiredness: Dogs may appear unusually tired or sluggish after playing in the water.
Unsteady Movements: Affected dogs might seem uncoordinated or unstable on their feet.
Confusion or Disorientation: Dogs might show signs of confusion or diminished alertness, failing to respond to normal commands.
Nausea and Vomiting: These are common as the body reacts to electrolyte imbalance.
Glazed Eyes and Drooling: These can be indicative of neurological effects due to swelling in the brain.
Preventative Measures
To prevent water intoxication, consider the following guidelines:
Monitor Water Play: Keep an eye on how much water your dog might be swallowing during play, especially when they fetch toys from the water or snap at water streams from hoses.
Choose Appropriate Toys: Opt for toys that don’t force your dog to keep their mouth wide open while swimming. Toys that are smaller and allow your dog to close their mouth more fully can reduce the amount of water ingested.
Breaks are Important: Regular breaks during water play can help manage the amount of water your dog ingests at one time.
Know Your Dog’s Swimming Style: Dogs that keep their heads low to the water or those that are vigorous swimmers might ingest more water. Adjust playtime accordingly. Sometimes using a life jacket can help get their head higher out of the water.
Immediate Response to Symptoms: If you observe any signs of water intoxication, it is critical to seek veterinary care immediately. Quick and aggressive treatment is essential to manage this condition.
Awareness and Education
Educating yourself and others about the risks of water intoxication is vital. Many dog owners are unaware of this danger until it’s too late. If you’re a dog trainer or canine business owner, sharing information about water intoxication can be an invaluable part of your client education efforts.
Water activities with dogs can be safe and enjoyable when proper precautions are taken. By being aware of the risks and knowing how to mitigate them, you can ensure many more fun-filled days with your canine companion. 🐾
By Erica Boling, PhD
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