You need about 8 glasses of water per day to keep your body hydrated and to aid in digestion, circulation, body temperature regulation, and more. Water is as equally important for your pets too! A dog, for example, will need an ounce of water for every pound of weight daily. Even more if you add in exercise and warm weather. Cats require 2-4 ounces of water in addition to wet and/or dry food.
A Good Sized Bowl
You never want a water bowl to run dry. A good rule of thumb is to place a water bowl out that holds twice as much water as your pet needs. Beware of a bowl that is too big or badly shaped. An ideal bowl cannot be knocked over. In addition, tall and narrow bowls will suit a dog who has long ears helping to keep his ears dry and avoid an ear infection.
Cleaning
Don’t forget to clean your water bowl with a dab of dish soap each day when you refill the water. Bacteria from the bowl may enter the water if the bowl is not clean.
Encourage Your Pets To Drink Water
You can sprinkle water on your pet’s wet food to increase the moisture content. You may also do this with dry food; however, it may cause the food to spoil more rapidly. If your pet has access to the bathroom, be sure to keep the toilet lid down. You’ll want your pet to associate the water bowl only as a safe drinking station.
Water On the Go
Whether you are going on a road trip, a long hike, or somewhere new with your pet, pack a water bottle to-go and a portable bowl to be used just for your pet.