Water Intoxication

Due to water intoxication, we encourage owners who use the pool to bring floating toys ONLY, and to ensure all dogs have time to get out of the pool to relax. Floating toys which do not take in water can help to minimise the amount of water your dog is taking in. It is encouraged that dogs are not in there constantly for the full session booked, and that they have time to relax too. This can prevent water intoxication.

 

Water Intoxication can occur when a dog swallows an excess amount of water. This is possible when dogs are playing with water, playing in the river or swimming.  Water intoxication in dogs is rare, however it is possible for symptoms to show if a dog has taken in a large amount of water. When dogs have water intoxication the amount of sodium in their blood becomes diluted which can lead to hyponatremia (very low levels of sodium in their blood). The flow of water can cause swelling of the cells, and if this causes the brain cells to swell, this can lead to potential brain damage. Dogs who have water intoxication may lose coordination and could become lethargic and begin to vomit. You could also notice signs such as excessive salivation and dilated pupils. Although all dogs are at risk of this when around water, dogs with a smaller amount of fab to absorb excess fluid, and smaller dogs are at a higher risk of water intoxication.

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For this reason, we highly encourage allowing your dog to have breaks on our splash deck during your booked swim time.  Please ensure that your dogs are having enough time out of the water as well as in the water. If you notice your dog is taking in a lot of water while swimming, get them out and have a short play session to give them a break.

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