How to 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:

• Water
• Ice cubes
• Gatorade or Powerade
• Turkey baster

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. 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. 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. 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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