How can you tell if a pet has reached an unsafe level of fatigue or dehydration?
Keith Legros
2025-08-04 02:28:19
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Dehydration is a loss of water that is beyond what the body takes in, causing the water level in a dog’s body to drop below normal. Often, an underlying condition or illness will cause the dog to lose their appetite, thirst, or energy level, which then leads to a state of dehydration. When the water level in the body is insufficient, the body compensates by drawing water out of its cells. This results in a loss of electrolytes, such as potassium, chloride, and sodium, and can affect many of the body’s systems, including muscle function. Severe dehydration can cause illness, and can eventually lead to death if left untreated.
Gerry Maggio
2025-08-04 02:25:10
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The most obvious sign of dehydration in dogs is the loss of elasticity in the animal's skin. If you pull lightly on your dog's skin and it doesn't readily go back to its original position, your dog is likely suffering from dehydration. Xerostomia is another early sign of dehydration in dogs. Xerostomia is when your pet's gums lose moistness and become dry and sticky, and your dog's saliva becomes thick and pasty. Other symptoms of dehydration include: Loss of appetite, Panting, Dry nose. Symptoms of severe dehydration include: Sunken eyes, Collapse, Shock. If your dog is displaying symptoms of shock, heatstroke, or severe dehydration, call your veterinarian immediately or contact your nearest emergency animal hospital.