When temperatures start climbing, staying hydrated becomes just as important for our pets as it is for us.
If you've been feeding raw for a while, you've probably noticed that your pet doesn't spend nearly as much time at the water bowl as many kibble-fed pets do. That's completely normal! Fresh and frozen raw food naturally contains far more moisture than dry kibble, so raw fed pets receive a significant amount of their daily water from their meals.
But even though they often drink less, that doesn't mean they can't benefit from a little extra hydration—especially during the hottest days of summer.
Why Hydration Matters
Water does much more than quench thirst. It helps regulate body temperature, supports digestion, cushions joints, transports nutrients throughout the body, and keeps every cell functioning properly.
Along with water, our pets also need electrolytes like:
- Sodium
- Chloride
- Potassium
- Calcium
- Magnesium
Unlike people, dogs don't cool themselves primarily by sweating. Instead, they rely on panting, with only minimal sweating through their paw pads. Because of this, healthy dogs typically don't require supplemental electrolytes on a daily basis.
However, extra hydration and minerals can be especially helpful during:
- Hot summer weather
- Long hikes or vigorous exercise
- Bouts of vomiting or diarrhea
- Recovery from illness (under veterinary guidance)
So what's the best way to naturally increase hydration?
1. Always Offer Fresh Water
This may sound obvious, but fresh, cool water should always be available.
During the summer, avoid leaving water bowls sitting in direct sunlight where the water quickly becomes warm. If you're out for summer activities, even a short walk, it's be carry some water with your for you & your carnivore! A thermos or insulated water bottle will help keep the water nice and cool.
2. Try Offering Salt Water Alongside Fresh Water
One of my favorite ways to offer additional minerals is by setting out two bowls:
- One bowl of plain fresh water
- One bowl made with ½ teaspoon of high-quality salt per 2 cups of water
Rather than regular table salt, consider rotating among mineral-rich salts such as:
- Celtic sea salt
- Redmond Real Salt
- Colima sea salt
- Himalayan pink salt
- Other high-quality sea salts
Why rotate?
Just like with raw feeding, variety matters. Each natural salt contains a slightly different mineral profile, so rotating them provides a wider range of trace minerals over time.
Offering two bowls of water like this is excellent for giving your pet a choice.
Your pet can decide which bowl they want to drink from. Some days they may ignore the salt water completely. Other days they may drink quite a bit. Many owners notice their pets seem more interested in it after spending time outside or after chewing on naturally dry treats like cow ears, bully sticks, or collagen braids.
3. Bone Broth
Bone broth is another excellent way to increase hydration.
Not only does it provide water, but it's also naturally rich in minerals—including potassium—and contains collagen and gelatin, which support healthy joints and the digestive tract.
Most pets absolutely love the rich, meaty flavor.
If your pet isn't feeling well, gently warming the broth can make it even more enticing while helping encourage fluid intake.
Just be sure to use a pet-safe bone broth that contains no onions, garlic, or excessive sodium. If you'd like to make bone broth at home we have a great, pet friendly recipe!
4. Unsweetened Coconut Water
This one surprises many people.
Plain, unsweetened coconut water naturally contains potassium, calcium, magnesium, and other electrolytes.
Because it also contains naturally occurring sugars, it should be offered in moderation rather than replacing your pet's regular water. Think of it as an occasional hydration boost instead of an everyday beverage.
It can also be a helpful option for encouraging fluid intake in pets who are feeling under the weather & need a little extra temptation to drink.
5. Raw Goat Milk
Raw goat milk is a favorite for many raw fed pets—and for good reason.
It naturally provides hydration along with beneficial electrolytes including:
- Calcium
- Sodium
- Potassium
It also contains naturally occurring probiotics that help support a healthy digestive system.
Because of this combination, raw goat milk can be a wonderful option after digestive upset or periods of diarrhea, helping provide both fluids and beneficial bacteria as part of your pet's recovery plan. (If diarrhea is severe or persistent, be sure to contact your veterinarian.)
Best of all?
Most dogs and cats absolutely love the taste.
Easy Ways to Hydrate
These hydration boosters are incredibly versatile.
You can:
- Pour them over meals.
- Serve them in a separate bowl.
- Freeze them into refreshing summer treats.
- Offer them after walks, hikes, or play sessions.
- Provide them throughout the day when your pet needs a little extra encouragement to drink.
Helping Your Carnivore Stay Cool
Summer adventures are meant to be enjoyed—but they can also increase your pet's need for fluids.
By keeping fresh water available and incorporating nourishing options like bone broth, raw goat milk, coconut water, or even a separate bowl of mineral-rich salt water for healthy pets, you can help support hydration naturally throughout the hottest months of the year.
Every pet is a little different. Some may stick with plain water, while others eagerly lap up goat milk or bone broth. Offering healthy choices lets you discover what your own carnivore enjoys most.
Here's to a safe, hydrated, and adventure-filled summer!
