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My very sick dog is dehydrated and won't drink. How can I help?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Boxer | Male | neutered | 8 years and 5 months old | 60 lbs

How can I get a very sick dog to hydrate? We think he is dying of some brain disease (MRI showed small infarction. Bloodwork normal. Low thyroid). Symptoms started June 3rd. As of yesterday he pretty much stopped walking. Doesn't lack strength, but coordination. Always hooking his body to the right, head tilt, knuckling. But, his skin is sagging now, and if you pinch it it doesn't bounce back. Tried soggy food (falls out of mouth), tried ice (hates it). I've resorted to ice inside pill pockets.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenny, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 27th, 2017

You can always try Gatorade, pedialyte or chicken broth to help give flavor and extra calories with electrolytes. If Chopper is not a fan of these options you can talk to your vet about how to give fluids under the skin (SQ) at home to help.

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