Australia's sweltering temperatures mean letting your dog rehydrate from a communal public water bowl is often convenient.
However, an expert has warned against the typical move and revealed the serious health risks shared water sources can pose.
Dr. Lori Teller, clinical professor at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, has told SciTechDaily that dog owners must be cautious.
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The professor advises that pet owners investigate the quality of public water before allowing their dogs to drink it.
Teller says even well-intentioned offerings are at risk, with the particular concern being if the bowl is left with stagnant water or unwashed for prolonged periods of time.
“Stagnant water can retain environmental contaminants, such as plant material, parasites, toxins, mould and more,” Teller explained.
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“Dogs that have stepped in fecal matter and then played in the bowl could leave parasites and bacteria in the water.”
A host of diseases can be transmitted from public water sources, including E. coli. salmonella, leptospirosis, giardia, kennel cough and canine papilloma.
Teller notes it's important to weigh the risk of contamination and dehydration, “If your dog is hot and thirsty and at risk of dehydration, then that may take precedence over avoiding the water in the bowl.”
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The expert also suggests that pet owners avoid letting multiple pets share a bowl, though it isn't essential.
“In most cases, dogs living in the same house will be exposed to similar infectious agents, so sharing a water bowl will not have a tremendous impact on that,” he said.
While avoiding letting your dog drink from shared water vessels, it's also important to regularly clean their bowls at home.
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Teller says that the best protection for pets is to use soap and hot water on a regular basis for their bowls at home.
For on-the-go use, the expert recommends a collapsible water bowl or that “they could stop at a restaurant or convenience store and request a cup of water for their dog.”
Next time you take your dog out for a walk, consider ensuring the water they drink is from a clean and disease-free vessel.
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