16/07/2025
Shared from our friends at Winstead Dogs - Training & Boarding. Something to think about in this heat while wanting to keep your dogs cool.
With most of Nova Scotia under a heat advisory, it seems like a good time to talk about water toxicity in dogs!
Water toxicity is one of those summertime dangers that you may not be aware of until it actually happens to your pet. It occurs when a dog just doesn't know when they've had too much of a good thing. Water play - fetch in the lake, excessively biting the spraying hose, lots of swimming- can result in the accidental (or purposeful) ingestion of too much water. And although lots of water on a hot summer day seems perfectly natural, the problem of toxicity arises when the dog simply swallows far more than they should. This leads to a severe imbalance of electrolytes.
Although salt water and fresh water will cause different imbalances within the body (one will cause too much salt, the other not enough) the initial symptoms are often similar.
What you might see :
- changes in personality
- "drunken" behaviour
- diarrhea
- wobbly gait/tremors
- collapse
Often a dog will continue to play even as these symptoms are emerging, so it's important to recognize the signs. Water toxicity is extremely dangerous and can happen quickly.
This is a condition that can lead to collapse, seizures or death if not treated promptly. If your dog has been playing excessively with water and is displaying any of the symptoms of water toxicity it is necessary to seek veterinary care WITHOUT DELAY.
This is not to discourage water play for our pooches - many dogs love the water and it can be the best part of a hot summer day! But moderation is key - be sure to know when your dog has had enough so everyone can have a safe and happy day, and if you suspect water toxicity seek immediate veterinary care. Fido will thank you for it!
