Are puddles safe for thirsty dogs?
You might be out and about on your adventure in the city or the park, and your dog gets a little thirsty. It rained recently, and your pet decides it wants to lick up a standing puddle on the sidewalk or trail. Is it okay to wait for your dog as it laps up a puddle? Can dogs drink from puddles? It could be much more dangerous than you think. Here’s what to know about letting your dog drink standing water.
The Dangers of Letting Your Dog Drink from Puddles
Water that has not been filtered into tap water or purified water is subject to many harmful contaminants. It is amazing what you can filter out of untreated water. Rainwater can take many particles with it as it reaches a rut and forms a puddle. It can take dirt, wildlife droppings, fatal bacteria, parasites, pesticides, herbicides, gasoline, car oil, deicers, and much more. Whatever is on the surrounding ground can be in a puddle.
The result of letting dogs drink from puddles can be a one-time sickness or as serious as death. In general, if you are in a public area, there’s a good chance that drinking from standing water will not go well for your pet. The types of symptoms your dog might experience include the following:
- Vomiting
- Drooling
- Tremors
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Muscle pain
- Bloody urine
- Death
If your pet starts to show signs of illness, have your local veterinarian’s phone number on hand.
How to Quench Your Pet’s Thirst on the Go
Better yet, train your dog to obey you so that no matter what, your dog will be obedient to your commands no matter the situation. Watch out for stagnant water, and do not let your pet drink from these puddles.
It’s also wise to provide clean drinking water for your pet when you go on trips. Bring bottled water for yourself and your pet. You can also bring a portable water bowl for easier drinking. You can find collapsible pet water bowls for compact organization.
A Grain of Salt
Dogs can drink from fresh rainwater or springs within reason. If you are in a relatively pristine area, such as a rural nature preserve with fresh rainwater, then your dog will most likely be fine.
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With three Maryland locations in Baltimore, Pasadena, and Cross Keys, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131, 410-793-7670, or 443-470-6790! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!