Warning to all dog owners as vet issues alert about fatal risk

A vet has warned dog owners about a potentially fatal risk this summer. While families flock to beaches and pools with their four-legged companions, pet owners are being warned about a lesser-known but potentially life-threatening danger.

Dr Aimee Warner, resident veterinarian at Waggel, explained that in rare cases, playing in the water can turn into needing medical care within hours. While this is very uncommon, it's something owners should be mindful of, according to Dr Warner. It concerns water intoxication, which can happen when dogs drink excessive amounts of water within a short period, lowering their blood sodium levels to extremely low levels. Unlike dehydration, which rises slowly, water intoxication can be fatal within hours if not treated, warned the resident vet.

She said: "It's not surprising to see cases of water intoxication in summer, especially after swimming or playing in water for long hours. Many owners would like their dogs to drink more water when it is hot, which is fine, but they are unaware that drinking too much water too fast can be hazardous."

She identified five high-risk scenarios every dog owner should be aware of, including extended swimming and water play

"Dogs that spend hours in the water retrieving toys, collecting water from hosepipes, or playing in shallow pools can ingest toxic levels by accident," she said. "Retrievers and water-loving breeds are especially vulnerable. Their love of water play can overwhelm their body's natural regulatory systems."

She also warned against drinking chlorinated pool water, brackish lake water, or saltwater, which can be "more of a problem", as the chemicals or salt will interfere with sodium levels.

After intense exercise or hot weather walks, dogs may gulp water rapidly to cool down, but she recommended giving small, frequent amounts rather than unlimited amounts immediately after exercise.

Chasing sprinklers or nipping at the hose is also fun for most dogs, but this can also lead to gulping a lot of water in a short time.

The fifth situation to be aware of, according to Dr Warner, is dogs drinking compulsively when stressed or anxious, particularly in new environments like beaches or camping trips.

She sid: "This behavioural drinking, combined with excitement and physical activity, creates perfect conditions for water intoxication."

Excessive drooling, nausea, vomiting, and loss of coordination are the early symptoms to look out for within one to two hours. Dogs may appear lethargic or confused, struggling to maintain balance during normal activities.

Difficulty breathing, pale gums, and a bloated abdomen signal escalating danger. Dogs may exhibit glazed eyes, weakness, or collapse, which she warned indicates a severe electrolyte imbalance requiring emergency intervention.

Seizures, unconsciousness, or coma are life-threatening phases. Any dog showing any of these signs must receive instant emergency veterinary attention.

To help prevent water intoxication, the vet recommended taking regular breaks from swimming or water play, offering small amounts of fresh water frequently rather than allowing unlimited consumption, and limiting swimming sessions to 30 to 45 minutes maximum for most dogs.

Elevated beds, cooling mats, or shaded areas help dogs regulate temperature without over-drinking.

Water-loving breeds like Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and Newfoundlands need special attention, according to Dr Warner, because their natural swimming ability can mask developing intoxication symptoms.

She concluded: "The goal isn't to restrict water access since hydration remains crucial, especially in hot weather. It's important to encourage sensible consumption patterns. Trust your instincts: if your dog seems 'off' after water activities, don't wait to see if symptoms worsen.

"Early veterinary intervention can mean the difference between a scary experience and a tragic outcome. Remember, cases are rare, but awareness ensures owners are prepared without unnecessary stress."