Rainy days and dogs: What every pet owner should know

Your dog may love splashing through puddles after a downpour, but drinking the water could put its health at risk.

With rain and thundershowers expected in parts of South Africa, pet owners should pay attention to where their dogs drink water during outdoor walks.

A puddle might look harmless, especially after fresh rainfall, but standing water can collect dirt, animal waste and other contaminants.

While clean rainwater is not necessarily dangerous, water that collects on roads, pavements and in gardens can pose health risks.

Bacteria can hide in puddles

One of the risks associated with contaminated water is leptospirosis, a bacterial disease that affects animals and humans.

Infected animals, including rodents, can spread the bacteria through their urine.

When infected urine contaminates water or soil, dogs can become infected by drinking the water or coming into contact with it through their eyes, mouth or damaged skin.

Leptospirosis can cause fever, vomiting, loss of appetite, muscle pain and weakness.

In severe cases, the infection can damage the kidneys or liver.

Parasites can cause stomach problems

Puddles and other contaminated water sources can also expose dogs to Giardia, a microscopic parasite that infects the intestines.

Infected animals shed the parasite in their faeces, allowing it to spread into water and the surrounding environment.

Dogs can become infected when they swallow contaminated water.

Giardia commonly causes diarrhoea, although some infected dogs show no symptoms.

Other dogs may experience vomiting, weight loss or a reduced appetite.

Roadside puddles can contain chemicals

Bacteria and parasites are not the only concerns.

Rainwater can wash oil, fuel, antifreeze and other chemicals from roads and parking areas into puddles.

Antifreeze containing ethylene glycol is particularly dangerous because even a small amount can cause severe poisoning in dogs.

Dogs that swallow it may develop vomiting, weakness, poor coordination or seizures. The chemical can also cause life-threatening kidney damage.

How can you keep your dog safe?

You do not have to stop taking your dog outside whenever it rains. However, a few precautions can reduce the risk of illness.

Rainwater itself does not automatically make dogs sick.

As rainy conditions continue in parts of the country, keeping fresh water available for your dog is one simple way to help prevent unnecessary health risks.