The dog handler warned about the danger of puddle water for dogs

With the onset of the warm season, dogs are more likely to reach for water when walking, but such sources can pose a serious threat to their health. Yulia Soltan, a dog handler and invited expert of the Triol brand, told Izvestia about this on May 4.

According to her, animals instinctively seek water to quench their thirst and cool down, but puddles, ponds and fountains often become a source of infections.

"Open reservoirs, especially stagnant ones, are an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and parasites," Soltan said.

The expert explained that standing water may contain leptospira, the causative agents of a dangerous disease affecting the liver and kidneys. Infection is possible not only by drinking, but also through the skin. According to her, there is also a risk of infection with intestinal parasites that cause digestive disorders and general deterioration of the animal's condition.

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Soltan added that in hot weather, reservoirs can "bloom" due to cyanobacteria, the toxins of which are especially dangerous for dogs.

"Death of an animal can occur within a few hours, even after brief contact with water, especially if the dog often licks its fur," she warned.

The expert stressed that urban fountains are also unsafe, as they accumulate bacteria that can cause infections in animals. According to her, it is possible to reduce the risks if you do not allow your pet to be thirsty and take clean water with you for a walk.

Soltan recommended that dogs be vaccinated regularly, especially against leptospirosis, and that they be examined after walking. She noted that if symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea or lethargy appear, you should immediately consult a veterinarian. The expert also advised choosing the right walking regime in the heat — morning and evening — and avoiding overheating in order to reduce the animal's need to seek water outside.

On April 30, Elena Frolenko, a veterinarian and expert at SUPERPET, a natural food manufacturer, said that with the onset of spring, the physiological processes of pets change, but dietary adjustments are not always required. According to the expert, molting increases in pets in the spring, so it is important to provide them with sufficient amounts of protein, fats, vitamins and minerals.