A VET nurse has warned owners about the very common mistake that’s “making dogs poorly.”
So if you want to ensure your pooch stays healthy, it’s important you listen up.
Not only can failing to do this very important daily task cause bad breath for your dog, but it can even contribute to vomiting, diarrhoea and skin irritation too.
Posting on social media, Jade, a Registered Veterinary Nurse from the UK who has three dogs and three tortoises, shared the importance of washing your dog’s water bowl every single day.
Not only have many admitted they don’t wash their pet‘s bowl every day, but others revealed it was “surprising” how many owners weren’t aware they needed to do this.
She said: “When was the last time you actually washed your dog’s water bowl? And I mean properly washed it, not just sloshed it around with some water and refilled it.”
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Jade then warned: “Even if the water looks clear, that doesn’t mean it’s clean – that slimy, light brown film you sometimes feel on the inside of the bowl, that is biofilm – a build up of bacteria, saliva and food particles and yes, it can make your dogs poorly.”
This animal pro then revealed what could happen if you don’t wash your pet’s bowl on a regular basis.
Jade added: “If your dog’s bowl isn’t cleaned regularly, that bacteria can contribute to bad breath, stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhoea and even skin irritation around their mouth.”
Following this, Jade revealed the right way to clean a dog’s water bowl.
She advised: “You need hot water, washing-up liquid, a designated sponge and you need to scrub every surface inside and out for at least 30 seconds. Rinse thoroughly, dry it properly, then refill.”
As well as this, Jade explained that those with a dishwasher should put their dog’s bowl on a hot cycle at least once a week on top of the daily washing.
She concluded: “You wouldn’t drink from an unwashed glass for days or even weeks, so neither should your dog – a clean bowl means cleaner water and a happier, healthier dog.”
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Jade’s TikTok clip, which was posted under the username @jade.the.vet.nurs, has clearly left many open-mouthed, as it has quickly racked up 43,900 views.
While some dog owners were thankful for Jade’s helpful advice, others admitted in the comments that they “never” clean their pet’s water bowl.
One person said: “I’ve never cleaned mine.”
Another added: “Please don’t judge – I only clean my dog’s bowl when it looks grubby but after watching this video I will start washing it daily! Thank you for sharing.”
A third commented: “Finally, something useful on TikTok.”
Meanwhile, someone else chimed in: “Great advice! It’s surprising how many owners don’t know this.”
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