by KYW’s Nan Talleno

It’s extremely important to keep your pets hydrated throughout the summer’s heat. Dehydration is a lack of water in the body and just as in humans, it can cause very serious complications in our pets quickly.

Dehydration occurs when fluid levels in the body are decreased. This can be due to either reduced water intake or increased fluid loss by overheating, especially in hot weather, or by vomiting or diarrhea. This is most often seen in puppies.

Symptoms of dehydration may include dry mouth, lethargic behavior, loss of appetite, sunken eyes and depression.

If you suspect your pet is suffering from dehydration, call your vet immediately. To check for dehydration, the ASPCA advises gently lifting the skin on the back of your dog’s neck or between the shoulder blades—unless your dog is seriously overweight or very thin, the skin should immediately return to a normal position. No breed is immune, but pregnant, nursing, elderly, and pets with illnesses are mostly at risk.

Keep your eye on your pets and provide plenty of water all day, every day to keep them cool all summer.