electrolytes - Page 1

Using electrolyte in extreme heat ,I'm using  pediatric electrolyte non flavered , can anyone tell me the dosage for approx 67 lb german shephard.   thank you Bob

Why are you doing this? Why not simply be sure the dog is fed an adequate diet, has access to enough water, and make sure it is not overexerted in extreme heat? 

I have heard much better reviews of Hydrolyte:  http://www.hydrolyte.us/

But in general, I would stay away from using electolyes, especially on a regular basis. I believe b/c it is taxing on the dog's kidneys....

I work my dog in 100+ degree weather for a couple of hours at a time. We find shade, take frequent breaks, and have lots of regular water. 

I have more problems than he does. 

:)

I only use a teaspoon  of electrolyte  for the dog , afther working ,10 to 15 min in 90 degree weather. 

Unless there is something wrong with your dog, I dont know who told you to do this or why...

I keep an electrolyte in storage for emergencies and only have had to use it on a male stud who wore himself out and dumped his water bowl while breeding a female.......

I guess I would question why someone would be working a dog in such hot weather by choice. We don't do anything really strenuous in hot weather, both for the sake of the dogs and the humans. If we must do something, we do so for perhaps a few minutes and that is it. 

I still think prevention is worth an ounce of cure...... Human electrolyte solutions are for humans and I doubt a small dose as you use is beneficial in any way. Cool the dog properly and let him/her have shade, rest and water in appropriate amounts.

There is not a certain dosage to be given by weight and using it can be very dangerous for your dog's well being.I understand about electrolytes.If a dog or a race horse is being over used and the owner/trainer wants to add electrolytes to prevent dehydration wheras the amino acids will kick in etc so the muscles will work.Sorry so vague of a statement. Hmmm.so there are many breaks ..finding some shade.What access does the dog have to a salt lick??From my research.. in working and herding trials etc.There is a difference I know.Although I may appear to be an idiot.Dogs will not drink what is needed for themselves.If you have to result in using electrolytes..simply said.You are over using your dog to gain a medal for yourself....PERIOD!!!!

electrolytes need to be measured and diluted to exactly the correct amount or it can cause more harm than good also most electrolytes don't work if diluted incorrectly

don't use them unless you need them.

the solution to this issue is not to over work your dog in the heat and provide a bowl of fresh clean water and a good diet fed in the cool of the evening

i freeze an ice cream tub full of water and leave that down if it gets real hot 

the only time electrolytes should be given are during illness or stress

regards

TM

 Bob, What kind of work are you doing in 10-15 minute increments in 90 degree weather?

That probably would help people have a better idea on how to advise you on conditioning. 

I am working area search in partially wooded areas - so 100 degrees feels a lot different than it would in an open field. And I don't get a choice on when to work.

What kind of issues are you seeing with your K9? Unless there is a necessity to work in that weather, I would work early mornings or late evenings rather than try to supplement, and focus on some overall conditioning.  

Rainhaus, some people aren't working their dogs for medals.  For all we know this may be a SAR or bomb dog that is living in a very arid climate.

Same goes for working only a few minutes at a time.  I know there are dog electrolytes some in my group use when it's the middle of summer here in AZ.   Since my dog is still in training he hasn't been worked in the extreme conditions of mid day so I've never had to use them.  I'll check for you and see what they use and in what dosage.

I do know they don't use electrolytes often though for the reasons Auntie Venom states.  It really can be hard on the dog.