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How to Treat Dog Dehydration

Contributor
By Heidi Gonzales
eHow Contributing Writer
(4 Ratings)
Treat Dog Dehydration
Treat Dog Dehydration

Mild cases of dog dehydration may show up as the 'glassy-eyed' look, lethargy or a case of overall weakness. A dog can get dehydrated by being overheated or if he is sick, particularly if he is vomiting or has diarrhea.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  1. Step 1

    Offer your dog water. Dogs will typically drink out of a bowl but if he is really reluctant, flavor the water with a bit of electrolyte based fluids such as Gatorade or Powerade. If you have a small dog or puppy, you can use Pedialyte.

  2. Step 2

    Offer your dog ice cubes if he refuses to drink. It is a smaller portion of liquid, but it will still help re-hydration. You may want to freeze a tray of cubes of Gatorade or Powerade.

  3. Step 3

    Force feed liquids if your dog refuses to drink or lick the ice cubes. The easiest way to do this is through a turkey baster. Carefully place it in your dog's mouth and rub his throat to encourage swallowing.

  4. Step 4

    Keep your dog in a cool place. Besides offering liquids, keep your dog in a cool place where he doesn't have to exert extra energy. Keep children and other animals away from him so that he is not tempted to run or play.

Tips & Warnings
  • If your pet does not drink anything within a 24 hour period, take him to the vet. He may need IV fluids to restore and re-hydrate his body.
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