07/21/2026
💦 Did you know "too much of a good thing" can be dangerous for our pups? Let's talk about Water Intoxication!
🐶As the weather heats up, many of us love taking our dogs swimming, to the beach, or letting them cool off with the hose or sprinkler. While water play is great, it’s important to know that dogs can accidentally swallow dangerous amounts of water while chomping at waves, catching water toys, or biting at sprinklers.
This excessive water intake dangerously lowers their sodium levels and causes vital organs—including the brain—to swell.
⚠️ What are the warning signs to look out for?
If you notice your dog exhibiting any of these symptoms during or after water play, take action immediately:
🐾 Lethargy or extreme drowsiness
🐾 Loss of coordination, stumbling, or wobbling
🐾 Bloating or a swollen belly
🐾 Vomiting and excessive drooling
🐾 Glazed eyes, dilated pupils, or pale gums
🐾 Difficulty breathing, seizures, or collapse
🚫 How to keep your dog safe (Prevention is Key!):
✔️ Take frequent breaks: Call your dog out of the water every 10-15 minutes so their hydration levels and electrolyte balance can stabilize.
✔️ Ditch round toys: Round objects (like tennis balls) keep your dog's mouth wide open, allowing them to swallow more water. Opt for flatter fetch toys that allow them to close their mouths.
✔️ Control the hose: Never let your dog bite continuously at streams from high-pressure garden hoses or sprinklers.
🚨 What to do in an emergency: If you suspect your dog has water intoxication, stop all water play immediately and contact your vet or the nearest emergency animal hospital straight away. Time is critical!
Please ❤️ and SHARE this post to help keep our furry friends safe this summer! ☀️🐕
Pictured is Dr. Sarah's dog Fiver
