PAWS: Encouraging Your Dog To Drink

	TODAY'S PET TIP Encouraging Your Dog to Drink
Proper hydration is crucial in the healing process; however, the ill or painful dog may not be interested in drinking. It is important NOT to force water into your dog, as it could lead to aspiration pneumonia if your dog is not swallowing appropriately. Listed below are several options to encourage your dog to drink. 1. Give your dog an ice cube to lick. 2. Allow your dog to lick water from your hand or your finger. 3. Feed canned dog food, as it has a higher water content. 4. Add warm water or low-sodium broth to your dog's food. 5. With your veterinarian's permission, offer small amounts of Pedialyte. 6. Adding an ice cube to the water bowl can encourage some dogs to drink. If your dog is weak and not interested in food or water, see your veterinarian. This post courtesy of Dr. Jon and the Dog Crazy Newsletter.