My Dog Is Drinking a Lot of Water – Should I Call the Urgent Vet?

Noticing your dog drinking a lot of water might have you wondering if something is up. It’s important to pay attention to changes in your dog’s habits, including how much water they’re drinking. Sometimes, it’s just a sign of thirst from a hot day or extra activity. But other times, it could be a signal that your dog needs a bit more care. If you’re concerned about how much water your dog is drinking, Pets Furst Urgent Care is here to help. Located in Langhorne, PA, our team is ready to assist with your concerns. You can call us at (215) 755-1000 to chat more about it or to set up an appointment. Let’s dive into why your dog might be drinking more water than usual and when it’s time to reach out for help.

Understanding Why Dogs Drink More Water

Just like people, dogs need water to stay healthy. Drinking water helps keep their body temperature cool, helps digest food, and gets rid of waste. However, if you notice your dog’s water bowl emptying quicker than usual, it might make you stop and think. There are a few common reasons why dogs drink more water:

Hot Weather or More Exercise: Just like you’d drink more on a hot day or after a workout, dogs do the same. If it’s been warmer or your dog’s been more active, they might just be quenching their thirst.
Diet: Some foods, especially those with more salt, can make dogs thirstier. Consider what your dog has been eating recently.
Medication: Certain medicines can lead to increased thirst. If your dog started a new medication, this could be the reason.
Health Issues: Sometimes, drinking more water is a sign of health problems. Conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or infections can make dogs drink more water.

When to Call the Vet

While it’s normal for dogs to have days where they drink more water, there are times when it’s a good idea to check with a vet. Here’s what to watch for:

Changes in Appetite or Weight: If your dog is drinking more water and eating less or losing weight, it’s worth a vet visit.
Changes in Urination: Pay attention to how often your dog needs to go outside. More frequent urination or accidents in the house are signs to call the vet.
Tiredness or Less Energy: If your dog seems more tired than usual or doesn’t want to play, it could be related to drinking more water.
Dry or Sticky Gums: Despite drinking a lot of water, if your dog’s gums feel dry or sticky, they might not be getting enough fluids.

How to Help Your Dog

While waiting for your vet appointment, there are ways you can support your dog:

Keep Water Available: Make sure your dog always has access to fresh, clean water.
Monitor Water Intake: Try to keep an eye on how much water your dog is drinking. This information can be helpful for your vet.
Avoid Changes: Stick to your dog’s regular diet and avoid giving foods that might make them thirstier.
Note Any Other Changes: Keep track of any other changes in your dog’s behavior or habits to share with your vet.

Pets Furst Urgent Care Can Help

At Pets Furst Urgent Care in Langhorne, PA, we understand that your dog is an important part of your family. Seeing them drink a lot of water might worry you, but we’re here to provide the care and answers you need. Our team is equipped to figure out why your dog might be drinking more water and to offer the right treatment.

If you’re concerned about your dog’s water intake or have noticed any other changes in their health, give us a call at (215) 755-1000. Let’s work together to ensure your dog stays happy and healthy. Our experienced staff is here to answer your questions and to make an appointment to see your dog if needed. Remember, it’s always better to be safe and get your dog checked out if you notice anything unusual. Pets Furst Urgent Care is your partner in keeping your dog at their best.