Hydration is vital in a wellness routine
While a wide variety of dog food brands and treats are available, hydration is a critical aspect of a dog's overall health that often doesn't receive enough emphasis. As you may know, water is the essence of life, and proper hydration is crucial for the overall well-being of our dogs.
Approximately 70% of a dog's body is made up of water, and it is essential for numerous bodily functions, such as digestion, circulation, temperature regulation, nutrient absorption, and waste elimination. What pet parents often overlook is the risk of dehydration and its impact. Dehydration in dogs isn't just about thirst—it can spiral into a myriad of troubles, from minor issues like a dull and dry coat, leading to undesirable shedding, to lethargy and more serious issues such as constipation, aggravating joint problems, urinary tract issues and in very severe cases, can result in organ failure. It is crucial to keep our pup hydrated to avoid these health hiccups.
Let's explore in a little more detail the seven critical functions of hydration for dogs and their humans:
- Cellular Function: Water is essential for various cellular processes and chemical reactions within cells. Proper hydration ensures that cells can function optimally, maintaining our dogs' overall health and vitality.
- Joint Health: Water helps cushion and lubricate joints, facilitating movements and preventing stiffness which can lead to discomfort. Hydration is essential for dogs with arthritis or joint issues, as it can help to improve mobility and alleviate pain.
- Digestion and Nutrient Absorption: Water plays a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients from food. It helps break down food particles, aids in transporting nutrients across the digestive tract and ensures proper digestion and absorption. Insufficient hydration can lead to digestive issues such as constipation or an unpredictable bowel.
- Kidney Function: Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining healthy kidney function. Water helps to flush out toxins and waste products from the body through urine, preventing the build-up of harmful substances and reducing the risk of kidney stones or urinary tract infections.
- Energy Levels: Dehydration can lead to fatigue and lethargy in dogs, affecting their vitality. Proper hydration supports optimal energy metabolism, helping dogs stay alert and engaged in their daily activities.
- Cognitive function and mood: Hydration is also vital for the brain. Studies show that even mild dehydration can impair cognitive function, mood, and concentration. By ensuring our dogs are adequately hydrated, we help keep their minds sharp, their spirits high, and their outlook positive.
- Temperature Regulation: Dogs regulate their body temperature primarily by panting and sweating through paw pads. Adequate hydration helps facilitate these cooling mechanisms, preventing overheating and heatrelated illnesses, especially during hot weather or physical activity.
The use of electrolytes for optimal hydration
Electrolytes are your hydration allies, which is why they are found in sports drinks. They support muscle and nerve function, regulate pH balance and facilitate energy production in humans and dogs. Supplementing electrolytes can help replenish lost fluids and maintain electrolyte balance, especially during periods of increased fluid loss, such as physically active dogs or increased activity, stress, illness or when the weather is warmer. It's about more than meeting your dogs’ basic needs— optimising their health and taking wellness to the next level.
Adopting wellness and preventive measures is more than just a choice—it's an ongoing journey that profoundly impacts both humans and dogs alike. Prevention is better than cure, which is why it is far superior to have a proactive approach towards health instead of a reactive one. Since dogs cannot communicate with us by using words to tell us something is wrong, we must always look out for them, think ahead, and not wait for a problem to arise to address health and well-being. From regular check-ups and vaccinations to dental care and parasite control, preventive measures are the foundation on which our health thrives.
The bond between humans and dogs is often described as unique and irreplaceable, built on trust, love, and companionship. Indeed, dogs possess a precious quality that resonates deeply with many people. Their ability to sense our emotions and provide comfort during difficult times, along with their playful antics and infectious enthusiasm for life, bring joy to even the darkest days. They are not just pets; they are family members, confidants, and loyal partners in crime who enrich our lives in countless ways. Ensuring that our dogs' wellbeing takes centre stage only seems fair. By practising wellness and preventative care for our dogs, we provide them with everything they need to live their best life, where every wag of the tail and playful bark is a testament to their vitality and happiness.
Lead nutritionist at Pawer Water, Tanya Cohen is an internationally renowned Registered Nutritionist & Nutritional Therapist who predominantly works with people who suffer from complex, chronic medical conditions. Her holistic and functional medicine approach focuses on addressing the root cause of disease rather than only managing symptoms. When Tanya is not consulting or doing hospital visits, she enjoys long walks with her dog in the park. Tanya's love for dogs inspired her to become a Certified Canine Nutritionist as she felt strongly that dogs, too, should be able to optimise their health.
Have a look at the Pawer Water products we sell at Healthful Pets.
This article first appeared in Edition Dog Magazine
