Pet First Aid Instructor Level 3 (VTQ) - Online Blended Part 1

188 videos, 8 hours and 55 minutes

Course Content

Hydration and rehydration in dogs

Video 89 of 188
2 min 11 sec
English
English
Want to watch this video? Sign up for the course or enter your email below to watch one free video.

Unlock This Video Now for FREE

This video is normally available to paying customers.
You may unlock this video for FREE. Enter your email address for instant access AND to receive ongoing updates and special discounts related to this topic.

Understanding Dehydration in Dogs and Cats

The Impact of Dehydration

Exploring the effects of dehydration and the need for proactive management:

Human vs. Canine/Feline Dehydration

Comparing dehydration thresholds in people and pets:

  • In humans, cognitive impairment and fatigue can result from dehydration as low as 2%.
  • In dogs and cats, clinical exams alone may not detect dehydration up to 5%.

The Importance of Early Intervention

Highlighting the critical need for proactive management:

  • Ensure constant access to water for pets.
  • Fluid loss due to vomiting, diarrhoea, blood loss, or heat stroke can quickly lead to severe dehydration or shock.
  • Even healthy animals can experience increased fluid loss, e.g., from panting on hot days or during vigorous exercise.
  • Excessive panting for 15 minutes, especially in high temperatures, can rapidly cause significant dehydration.

Hot Environments and Critical Dehydration

Addressing the risks of hot environments and dehydration:

Animals left in hot cars face critical dehydration once body temperature reaches dangerous levels.

Reduced Feed Intake and Dehydration

Exploring how reduced food consumption can lead to reduced fluid intake:

  • Ill or unappetizing dogs may consume fewer fluids.
  • Meat-based wet diets, a primary source of daily fluids, can be affected.

Susceptibility Based on Age

Understanding age-related differences in thirst mechanisms:

Older and very young animals may not drink until severe dehydration occurs.