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Hydration Strategies in Sporting Dogs
Keeping dogs hydrated during sporting events is of critical importance.
Research shows that a 44 lb dog that is participating in intense sporting
events loses double the amount of water when compared to the same size dog that
is not exercising (3000 cc's of water vs. 1500 cc's of water) even at similar
environmental temperatures.
Intense exercise uses energy stored in the body. The process of using energy by
the body produces waste products that must then be filtered out of the body and
excreted. If there is not enough water available in the body, certain negative
health conditions result. When even mild dehydration occurs, your canine
athlete can have decreased cognition abilities, muscle ataxia, increased strain
on the heart, and a decreased ability to regulate its body temperature. Total
body water losses between 8-10% can result in death. The initial signs of
dehydration can be subtle so it is important to know your dog. The amount of
time for a dog to transition from intermediate to final stages of dehydration
is quite short, so it is imperative to recognize the first signs of dehydration
and take immediate action. If your dog exhibits any of the intermediate signs
of dehydration, seek veterinary medical attention.
Signs of dehydration
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Beginning signs
Visibly tired
Slowed pace/ Less animation
Act more “warm”—excessive panting etc
Changes in attitude- appears more apprehensive
Intermediate Signs
Skin turgidity will become less-if you pinch the skin on their back, it will be
slow to return to normal shape
Slow gum capillary refill- if you press firmly on their gums and release, the
time it takes for the gum to refill with color will be slow
Gums and tongue become darker in color
Rectal temperature remains > 105° F
Final signs
Weak in the hind end
Wobbly and unsteady on feet
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Dehydration can occur in any dog working intensely, regardless of the
environmental temperature, not just when it is hot outside, although increased
temperatures do increase the incidence of dehydration. Hence, it is critical to
keep hard working dogs hydrated regardless of weather conditions.
Unfortunately, electrolyte solutions typically used to hydrate humans do not
work with dogs. Dogs do not sweat in useful amounts except from their footpads,
instead they pant to cool themselves. Therefore, they do not lose electrolytes
at the same rates as human athletes. Human electrolyte solutions can actually
make dehydration worse in dogs because it causes an imbalance between the
concentration of electrolytes inside and outside of the cells. This situation
causes the water to be pulled out of the cells, which further exacerbates the
dehydration condition. Most human electrolyte solutions are high in simple
sugars, which can also exacerbate dehydration by pulling even more water into
the gut. Feeding a quality diet should provide enough electrolytes so that the
dog does not need to be supplemented, either pre- or post exercise. Therefore,
dogs should be offered clean water in the field as often as possible.
Dogs should be taught early in their conditioning and training to drink from a
waterspout so that water can be delivered quickly and efficiently in the field.
There is not always a bowl handy! The most convenient way to carry water in the
field is either in a large water bottle with a “sports lid” or spout or, in the
new backpack water carriers like a “Camel Back” often used by cyclists and
hikers.
In addition, during breaks or at lunch, offer the dog water baited with a few
kibbles to give it flavor. Dogs maybe more inclined to drink water that has
been flavored with kibble or other treats.
Remember, a dehydrated dog is not able to give a peak performance and will have
a difficult time recovering from the exercise bout.
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Founded
in 1988, the stated mission of The Bird Dog Foundation, based in Grand
Junction, is that of “preserving the past and protecting the future for
sporting dog fanciers the world over.” Click here for more info
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Pro Plan Performance Formula delivers extra protein and calories
to fuel the activities of hardworking dogs.
Learn more>>
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Friends We Make Along the Way
Purina’s Bob West, Director of the Sporting Dog Group, is passionate
about sporting dogs and people who love them. In 40 years as a
professional trainer, West has put more than 100 titles on dogs. Here
he shares lessons learned while competing and gives advice about
getting into the game.
Read
the Article>
The Natural
Labrador Retriever trainer Kristie Wheeler of WaterDog Kennels got her
start as a professional trainer by first working as an obedience
trainer. Today, she has trained 20 AKC Master Hunter Labradors, earned
a spot on the Women’s Challenge Trophy, and become an inspiration for
others through her Retriever Retreats for women
Read
the Article>
Dogs of Versatility
Nothing compares to the exultation of earning a Versatile Champion
title from the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association. Dogs
and handlers train for years in preparation for three phases of water
and field tests in which they are judged against a demanding standard.
Read
the Article>
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