Water intoxication

Once again, we have the latest in canine health from the fantastic Rachel Bean. This month, we find out all about water intoxication from the professional herself.

It’s been a busy month for Team Bean, and we have been heading up and down the country teaching canine first aid. If I have seen you at one of my courses, thank you for coming along.

My trusty sidekick Chilli has been an absolute dream and the perfect travel buddy as we navigate up and down the country, and she also really helps get the message across at my hands-on demonstrations too.

Fox red Labrador Chilli is no stranger to appearing in public and has picked up plenty of celebrity friends on the way.

And as part of our most recent tour, it was lovely to stop off with our good friend Jodie Marsh, a consummate animal advocate who made us feel really welcome.

We have been friends with Jodie for many years, and it is amazing watching her animal advocacy and rescue work flourish.

Media personality and award-winning bodybuilder Jodie runs Fripps Farm Animal Sanctuary, which is a lifelong dream for her. We are proud to be associated with the project and her caring and nurturing nature shines through in the work that she does.

The sanctuary began in 2020 which was obviously a difficult time all around, but Jodie and her team have remained dedicated to their cause, and the sanctuary’s animals are happy, healthy and finally in their well-deserved safe space.

As I am writing this column I am getting ready to head to Scotland, where I am looking forward to teaching at a series of events. If you would like me to come to your place of work to teach a course please get in touch, Canine First Aid is so important!

So, here’s my tip for this month...

The weather is amazing at the moment, but there is a hidden hazard for your dog that all pet owners and pet professionals should know about.

Dogs who are fed a dry diet often like to drink plenty of water, but when the weather heats up too, there is a very real chance of water intoxication from taking in too many fluids.

The consequences of allowing your dog to take on too much water could be fatal, and it can take a large dog as little as eight hours to die if they are not treated.

Water intoxication is a very real threat, and it is vital that owners monitor how much water their dog is taking on during hot weather.

Of course, it is important that your dog stays hydrated, but too much water can flood the dog’s intestinal tract and cause swelling of the animal’s liver and brain.

Water intoxication is commonly seen in dogs who love to play in water, and have lots of access to deeper water throughout the day which they will absorb and drink.

As well as causing serious harm to your dog’s vital organs, too much water can also completely flush out vital minerals from their system, including sodium.

Signs of water intoxication to look out for include lethargy, a swollen stomach, nausea and vomiting.

If you suspect that a dog is suffering from water intoxication get them to a vet urgently as they will need emergency treatment. Water is vital for life, but it can also be a killer.

To find out more about Rachel Bean go to www.rachelbean.co.uk