SAN ANTONIO — Even though summer may be winding down we still have a couple of months with hot temperatures ahead. In tonight's Verify we tackle one issue that has to do with keep your pet safe in the heat.
Dogs look adorable with their tongue hanging out of their mouths with a big smile, but if that comes along with panting, that could be a sign of dehydration.
THE QUESTION
Is it true that you should not give a panting dog a large amount of water to cool it off?
THE SOURCES
- Dr. Leslie Bauer, a veterinarian with Thrive Pet Healthcare of San Antonio
- An article by the publication PetMD
THE ANSWER
TRUE
WHAT WE FOUND
Dr. Bauer says never let a dog gorge on water when they are panting for a couple of reasons.
"The biggest thing is that they might drink so much that then they start vomiting. Because they fill up their stomachs. Worst case scenario with that, especially with our bully breeds and Frenchies, if they vomit, they can sometimes asperate and get it into their lungs," Bauer added.
We found several articles that agreed including one on PetMD.
"Stop for water breaks, maybe around every mile or when you see that your dog is panting hard, allowing your dog to drink just enough to quench her thirst each time. Don't allow her to gulp large amounts of water at one time, as this can lead stomach upset or bloating."
So yes, it is true. You should not give a panting dog a large amount of water to cool it off.
Dr. Bauer also said to cool off your dog they can have very small amounts of water. Other ways to cool them off, getting them inside, in the shade, or hosing them off with lukewarm water or place them in front of a fan.