As warmer weather arrives, dog owners are being warned about the risks of allowing their pets to drink from natural water sources such as ponds, rivers, and ditches. These waters can harbour harmful bacteria, parasites, and chemicals that may cause serious illness, according to experts.
Chris Maxted, director of Dog-G8, highlights the hidden danger of rat urine in stagnant water. He explains that ponds, ditches, and even clear-flowing rivers can be contaminated with diseases like leptospirosis, which spreads through infected urine and can survive in water or soil for months.
Pet charity PDSA warns that leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that attacks vital organs such as the liver and kidneys. Symptoms include vomiting, jaundice, diarrhoea, lethargy, reduced appetite, weight loss, increased drinking and urination, breathing difficulties, and coughing. The disease enters the body through the mouth, nose, or wounds.
Other risky water sources include communal water bowls, which can expose dogs to Salmonella and E. coli, and puddles, which may contain antifreeze or other toxins. Sea water is also dangerous due to its high salt content, which can lead to salt poisoning causing vomiting, diarrhoea, and tremors.
Chris Maxted recommends that owners bring fresh water from home on walks and offer it regularly, especially in warm weather, to prevent dogs from drinking from unsafe sources.
