Is Your Pet Drinking from Puddles? Here’s Why It’s Dangerous
If you're out for a walk or hike and you come across a puddle, it can seem like an easy water source for your pet. Especially if you're out of the H2O you brought along for your adventure. But standing water presents dangers for pets that can lead to major health problems. The dangers are more prevalent than most pet parents realize.
That's why the team at The Vet Gal and Guys wants to share what we know about keeping pets safe from dirty water:
What’s Hiding in Standing Water?
Puddles are a form of standing water, which means it's a perfect place for all sorts of harmful organisms to grow. One of the biggest risks is leptospirosis, a bacteria found in puddles everywhere. It's spread via the urine of infected animals, which often ends up in puddles.
Your dog can pick up this bacterial infection from drinking contaminated water—or even just from walking through a puddle with an open cut. Leptospirosis in dogs can lead to kidney or liver failure, and if it isn't treated early, it can be fatal.
But leptospirosis is just one of the pet risks stagnant water brings. Dirty water can contain other bacteria or waterborne diseases that cause severe symptoms in pets. You might notice gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea after your pet drinks from a puddle.
And then there's the issue of parasites in standing water. Parasites like giardia and other protozoa that infect your pet's digestive system can lurk in puddles. With the hot Texas summer upon us, it’s more important than ever to be aware of these dangers.
How to Keep Pets Safe
The good news is, it's fairly easy to keep your pet safe from the dangers of dirty water. Most pets will happily drink clear, cold water over muddy puddles or pond water. Get in the habit of bringing water for your pup—plus a bowl for them to drink it from—anytime you leave the house. Even if you're just planning to walk around the block!
Here in Texas, it's essential to have plenty of fresh water on hand for your pets anytime you're out and about. With lightweight, collapsible water bowls that can attach to keychains, it's easier than ever to bring clean water along. Make sure you pack enough water to last your entire outing. We recommend bringing at least 8 ounces of water per pet, per hour. Keep the water in an insulated tumbler to make sure it stays cold and fresh.
If your pet is still tempted to drink from standing water, steer her away from it when you're out on a walk or hike. Then, offer that clean water you brought with you!
Sometimes, pets drink out of puddles no matter how hard we try to prevent it.
If you think your pet has contracted an illness from standing water, reach out to our caring mobile veterinary team at The Vet Gal and Guys. We know your life is busy, so we’ll come to you with our mobile veterinary van. Call us at (817) 733-3011 to schedule your pet’s appointment!