Don't let your dog drink the rainwater. Hear us out! | Fitdog (2024)

FAQs

Why shouldn't dogs drink rain water? ›

Lepto is a disease that is frequently contracted by dogs drinking from standing water, such as puddles or ponds. A dog with Lepto will become extremely sick and can sometimes be fatal. This disease is a bacterial infection that enters your pup's bloodstream.

Can dogs get sick from being in the rain? Dogs don't get sick due to being in the rain, however it is important to dry them off as soon as you get inside. If a dog is already weakened due to an underlying health condition or a compromised immune system, being out in the rain can worsen their condition.

Pet owners often notice their furry friends drinking from puddles. Have you ever wondered why? The answer lies in the allure of nature's own recipe. Rainwater, untouched by chemicals like chlorine, exudes a fresh smell and taste that captivates our pets' senses.

Bring clean fresh water for your dog to drink while hiking and avoid your pet ingesting water from any outdoor water sources. It is very important to keep all vaccinations up to date.

Most dogs will relish drinking from muddy puddles, however they can be a source of harmful bacteria, parasites, chemicals, oil, animal faeces, dead insects and litter. "Puddles can be a co*cktail of all sorts of nasties, from sharp objects to harmful bacteria," warns Dr. Sabrina Kong, DVM and veterinary writer.

Initially, it may seem like your dog just has a simple stomach ache but if you suspect they have ingested flood water they will likely start to show symptoms such as diarrhea or vomiting, which can mean they have developed a stomach bug or intestinal infection such as Gastroenteritis or Giardia.

Dog's senses are stronger than humans', which means they can be more sensitive to sounds and smells associated with rain. This can make a walk in the rain overwhelming. The sound of the rain hitting the ground and other surfaces can make dogs nervous and even cause ear pain.

Storm Fear/Phobia

Dogs diagnosed with storm phobia can react with anxiety or fear to wind, rain, thunder, lightning, and other associated stimuli, including barometric pressure changes, the “smell of rain,” static electricity, and even time of day.

Sometimes, your pet will know that a storm is coming before you do! They are very sensitive to barometric pressure changes and they can “feel” the storm before they can see or hear it. Their intense ability to smell enables them to detect rain and an approaching storm, as well.

Small swallowed amounts won't hurt your pet, but we don't recommend taking any big swigs. This is still true even if your pool is regularly cleaned.

Do dogs like the sound of rain? ›

Because their ears are so sensitive, the sound of the rain can be overwhelming for a pup. While the odd drizzle likely won't have too much of an impact, a heavy rain spell can leave them feeling anxious and restless. For many puppers, this is why the answer to the question of, “do dogs like rain?” is often “no”.

Dogs like drinking rainwater because it tastes so different to tap water which often contains fluoride or chlorine. The difference in taste with rainwater puddles is more noticeable to dogs. Rainwater can smell far more interesting than clean tap water, making them want to smell and taste it.

Don't let your pets drink rainwater. Rainwater is often swimming with dirt and bacteria that can harm your pet. Especially in urban areas where chemicals are also common.

Problems with Tap Water

This may include metals like lead and arsenic which compromise dog's immune system. The water may also contain microplastics, which causes health hazards.

It is advised that dogs drink water with a pH level of 8.5 or below, which is the least alkaline. The best water sources for dogs are a water ionizer and alkaline spring water that comes from nature. For best results, maintain a lower alkaline pH, such as that found in naturally alkaline spring water.

Rain and runoff water can be harmful to your pets if they swim or drink it. North Bentwood Veterinarian, Dr. Victor Schulze, says, “when pets drink the water or runoff, they get all of the feces, manure, urine that is collected on the soil.”

What are the signs of leptospirosis in dogs? The clinical signs of leptospirosis vary. Common clinical signs reported in dogs include fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, refusal to eat, severe weakness and depression, stiffness, or severe muscle pain.

“While dogs love to stop and drink puddle water, it is best not to allow this. Rats and mice can urinate in stagnant water, leading to the spread of Leptospirosis. Though your dog should be covered for Leptospirosis if up to date with their vaccines, they are still at risk of contracting the disease.”