Both experts agree that making fresh, clean water available at all times is paramount. It’s also an easy task for pet parents to accomplish for their furry friends.
When it comes to filling up your canine’s water dish, “tap water is absolutely fine,” says Dr. Grzyb. While there are hot debates about tap versus purified water, she notes that tap water has never been proven to cause any worsening of the kidney disease. Dr. Werber agrees, and notes that while purified spring water has less solutes, “there is no proof to support that purified water is any better for pets.” Providing purified water is fine if that is what you desire, just be sure it’s fresh water—whatever the source, says Dr. Werber.
Also, adds Dr. Werber, “subcutaneous fluids [fluids placed under the skin] can be very helpful in hydrating an animal with chronic renal disease.”
Dr. Grzyb recommends speaking with your veterinarian so that he or she can prescribe the appropriate type of fluids for the specific pet patient and determine the amount and frequency to be administered.
“Owners can be taught how to administer these fluids at home in a calm environment for the pet, and invasiveness is at a minimum,” says Dr. Grzyb.
