Dehydrated pets feel ill, can not fight their disease well, do not eat well, and can not metabolize drugs efficiently.
Dehydration decreases the circulation to two very important organs, the liver and the kidney .
These organs are then unable to perform vital functions, some of which include detoxifying drugs and removing waste products. It is diagnosed based on a history of anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, or extra fluid loss. A blood sample will also give clues to dehydration especially the total protein level and the hematocrit. These catheters allow us to administer medication directly into the venous system for rapid distribution to the whole body. Medication given this way acts faster and is more controllable, a significant advantage for an ill pet or in an emergency.