The Reason Dogs Should Avoid Drinking from Puddles

Many dogs will drink from puddles to quench thirst while on a walk. Puddles also smell very interesting to dogs and this arouses curiosity. Pathogens are lurking in the water of puddles, which is why your dog may not enjoy this pleasure.

Leptospirosis can be a serious problem for dogs who like to drink water from puddles. These pathogens are also capable of being transmitted to humans, causing flu-like symptoms. Giardia can make your dog sick if it is found in puddles.

Caution. Leptospirosis can be transmitted to dogs who drink water from puddles

Leptospires are the pathogens responsible for leptospirosis. They are carried by mice and rats. Leptospires are excreted by mice and rats, even though they do not get sick. Feral rats and mice do not care where they drop their droppings, so their urine is found almost anywhere. Leptospirosis is a pathogen that thrives in mild, moist environments. This is why it multiplies so quickly in ponds and pools.

Your dog will ingest the leptospires if he drinks the water from the puddle. Vomiting, diarrhea and frequent urination are signs of an infection. The skin and mucous tissues also turn yellow. You should take your dog immediately to the veterinarian if you suspect leptospirosis. If the disease is caught early, it can be treated with antibiotics.

Caution. Leptospirosis is a zoonose – a disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans. You should consult your doctor if you experience a high fever or symptoms that resemble flu. It can cause organ damage or meningitis.

Dogs get diarrhea when they drink puddled water contaminated with Giardia.

Giardia can survive for up to several weeks in water that is cool. The parasites thrive in puddles around dog runs, and other areas where dogs congregate. Other stagnant water bodies may also contain the pathogens. Giardia can be transmitted to dogs that drink water from these puddles. The symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting and flatulence.

If you suspect that your dog has intestinal parasites, it is important to consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible. He can help rid your dog of intestinal parasites. Certain antibiotics and worming treatment are used. As a precaution, you can treat other animals in your home against Giardia. Take care of yourself, too: Giardia is contagious to humans. Rubber gloves are recommended when handling the excrement from your sick dog.

How can you prevent dogs from drinking water puddles in the yard?

Dogs do not know that drinking from puddles can make them sick. It is a source of pleasure for them to drink puddle-water. It is especially true for hunting and other breeds of dogs that enjoy exploring and browsing in the wilderness. It is therefore difficult to stop dogs drinking puddles of water.

Avoid dangerous sports like dog races or

Nature trails are located near bodies of standing water. You can also leash your dog consistently and tell him “No!” whenever he gets close to a puddle. You can offer him fresh water in a bowl as an alternative. He will then feel less punished if he doesn’t slurp the water.

How to prevent leptospirosis, giardia and other parasitic diseases

There is a vaccine available for some leptospirosis bacteria. The vaccine is not effective against many leptospires but can reduce the risk of infection. Leptospirosis vaccine is recommended especially for dogs who can’t stay away from puddles or ponds. Your veterinarian can help you decide if vaccinating your dog is beneficial.

There is currently no vaccine against Giardia. You can keep your dog from getting into puddles. You should also ensure that the environment in which your dog lives is hygienic, and that he does not come in contact with other animals’ excrement.