Should Dogs Drink Bottled Water?
We all want to give our pets the very best products to ensure that they are healthy and happy. From gourmet foods to designer doggie beds, for some people no expense is spared for their furry friends. But is giving a dog bottled water going a step too far? There are many advantages and disadvantages to giving dogs bottled water. Read on to find out exactly what the consensus is on this form of pampering.
Advantages to Giving Dogs Bottled Water
Many people believe that what is good enough for them is good enough for their pets, and there is some truth in this theory. In a lot of places, tap water is not safe for drinking due to high levels of chemicals or contaminants. If this is the case where you live, you may want to consider giving your pet water that has been filtered or bottled. This is particularly true when traveling with your dog. New strains of bacteria in the water could cause diarrhea and other stomach problems for both you and your dog, so it is safer to drink bottled water.
There are quite a few companies out there that produce bottled water specifically for dogs. These products often come with added nutrients and minerals that target canine needs. Take for example the Our Hero Enhanced Dog Water, which comes in three formulas: Hip and Joint, Exercise Recovery Formula, and Healthy Ageing. Certain brands even offer bottled water in dog-friendly flavors such as chicken, beef and fish.
Disadvantages to Giving Dogs Bottled Water
Perhaps the biggest disadvantage to buying bottled water for dogs is the waste it can cause. As we all know, plastic is terrible for the environment. The Clean Air Council reports that in 2006, 1.3 million tons of water bottles were produced in the United States, and about 75.6% of those bottles ended up in landfills. Bottles take thousands of years to break down, and the amount of oil needed just to produce the bottles in the first place is astronomical.
Another disadvantage is the cost. Bottled water is expensive, especially if you are buying specialty or high-end brands. Buying a constant supply of bottled water for you and your dog can really add to your expenses, not just for the water alone but also for the extra transportation costs to go and get the water. Tap water, on the other hand, is free and readily available.
The Consensus
Overall, the decision seems to rest on the quality of your tap water. A general rule of thumb is that if it is safe for humans to drink, it is also safe for dogs to drink. If your tap water is drinkable it is probably a good idea to use this resource to keep your dog hydrated in order to cut down on costs and waste. However, if you think your pet needs an extra vitamin boost, or you are in an area where the tap water is not safe to drink, you may want to consider bottled water. Just be sure to dispose of those bottles in an environmentally conscious way.
