July 2015
Featured in this insight: Food & drink, Public health & wellbeing, Water
Research reveals what UK dog owners know about pet hydration: To raise awareness of how much our pets should be drinking during the summer months, pet product expert PetSafe® conducted a hydration survey for pets, and discovered that nearly half (45%) of pet owners in the UK, are uncertain of the amount of water their pets should be drinking.
The survey reveals that pet owners give their pets milk to drink – and tea – and even let them drink water from rain puddles.
When investigating the most common things dogs like to drink other than water, puddle water comes in at top of the list. 42% of dog owners said that their pets regularly drink puddle water. Unfortunately though, this water can be potentially dangerous for dogs, and can cause stomach upsets.
23% of dogs are given tea to drink, whereas cats are less keen with only 15% drinking the UK’s favourite brew.
Interestingly, the survey found that a quarter of cats (25%) are given milk as a beverage. However, it’s a mistaken belief that milk is ‘good for them’, as it can lead to obesity, and can cause our felines problems, such as diarrhoea and severe stomach cramps.
Dog panting is a sign that a dog is too hot or anxious. However, research reveals that half (50%) of dog owners believe that panting is a sign of dehydration. Also, research indicates that nearly three quarters (70%) of pet owners wouldn’t know how to tell if their pet was dehydrated.
The survey exposed that when going on long walks or car journeys, up to 40% of pet owners don’t take water for their pets, though disposable poo bags came at the top of the list of necessities on these occasions.
David Chamberlain, veterinary consultant for PetSafe says: “Even losing just 10% of the body’s water can have serious consequences for a dog or cat and hotter weather, exercise and periods of illness can all contribute to water loss. It is vital to ensure that pets have access to clean, fresh water at all times, and make sure that they are drinking enough to keep them happy and healthy."
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