Dog Days of Summer: How Water Quality Affects Your Pets
Summer is here, and that means longer walks, backyard playtime, trips to the lake and plenty of time soaking up the sunshine with our four-legged family members. But during the Dog Days of Summer, keeping your pets hydrated is about more than simply filling their water bowl.
Just like people, dogs and cats need access to fresh, clean water every day. And because your pets rely on the water you provide, it’s worth taking a closer look at the quality of the water they’re drinking.
Fresh Water is Essential for Pets
- Hot weather and increased activity can cause pets to drink more water than usual. A clean, fresh supply should always be available, especially after exercise or time spent outdoors.
- Veterinary guidance recommends paying attention to changes in your pet’s normal drinking habits. If your dog suddenly starts drinking significantly more or less water than usual, it may be worth talking with your veterinarian.
- Keeping your pet’s bowl clean is also important. Water that sits for long periods can become contaminated with bacteria and other unwanted material. Washing the bowl regularly and replacing the water with fresh water can help keep your pet’s drinking water cleaner.
What About the Water Coming From Your Tap?
For most households served by a properly regulated public water system, tap water is generally considered safe for pets. However, water quality can vary depending on the source of your water and what happens between the treatment plant and your faucet.
Want to know more about your local water? One easy place to start is the Environmental Working Group’s Tap Water Database. You can enter your ZIP code to look up information about your local water supply and see what contaminants may have been detected in your area. It’s a helpful resource for learning more about the water coming into your home, and what you may want to consider testing for – not just for your family, but for the pets who drink it every day.. EWG Tap Water Database
Be Careful with Outdoor Water Sources
Summer adventures can also expose pets to water sources that aren’t intended for drinking.
It’s best not to let your dog regularly drink from ponds, lakes, stagnant water or unfamiliar outdoor water sources. Stagnant water can contain bacteria, parasites, toxins and other contaminants. Certain types of algae, including potentially toxic blue-green algae, can also pose serious risks to dogs.
And while a few laps from a swimming pool may not necessarily cause a problem, pool water shouldn’t be considered a substitute for fresh drinking water. Keep a bowl of clean water nearby whenever your pet is outside playing or swimming.
A Few Simple Ways to Keep Your Pet Hydrated This Summer
🐾 Keep fresh water available. Make sure your pet always has access to clean drinking water, especially on hot days.
🐾 Clean the bowl regularly. Don’t just top off yesterday’s water. Empty, wash and refill the bowl regularly.
🐾 Bring water on adventures. Take fresh water with you on walks, hikes and trips to the park.
🐾 Watch outdoor water sources. Don’t assume that a pond, lake or puddle is safe just because your dog wants to drink from it.
🐾 Pay attention to changes. Significant changes in your pet’s water consumption can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue and should be discussed with your veterinarian.
🐾 Know your home’s water. If you’re concerned about your household water, consider having it tested to better understand what’s coming out of your faucets.
Better Water for Every Member of the Family
At Clearwater Systems, we know that water isn’t just something you drink, it’s part of everyday life. And that includes the four-legged members of your family.
This summer, while you’re enjoying the Dog Days of Summer, make sure your pets have what they need to stay happy, healthy and hydrated: plenty of fresh, clean water.
If you’re wondering what’s in your home’s water or whether your current water treatment system is meeting your family’s needs, including your pets, the first step is simple: test your water and learn more about what’s coming out of your tap.
Because better water is better for the whole family – even the furry ones. 🐾💧
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