Pet hydration is always important, especially in the hot summer days. With many of us experiencing a particularly hot and dry summer, it’s even more important to make sure our pets get the water they need to stay healthy and safe.

How Much Water Does Your Pet Need?

It can vary among species and breeds, but a good rule of thumb is to provide your pet with an ounce of water per day for every pound of your pet’s body weight. So a dog that weighs 15 pounds would need about two cups of water per day. Many pets do not get enough water, so it’s important to make sure your pet has plenty available.

Keep It Full

A simple strategy is to keep your pet’s water dish full at all times. If possible you can store it in a visible area where you are likely to see if it’s empty. You can also opt for a self feeding water dish, as long as it gets cleaned regularly. It can be easy to forget about your pet’s water when they have a big water dish, so check it as often as needed.

If your pets spend a lot of time outside, make sure they have a water dish out there. Keep it in a shaded place, so the water won’t get too warm. The blazing summer heat means your pet will need even more water to stay safe.
Talk with your veterinarian if you have any questions about healthy pet hydration. It’s one of the most important things you can focus on to keep your pet healthy during the summer months.