quick question—I'm chilling on the couch with Max and wondering, can dogs drink Gatorade? Not sure if this is a dumb idea, but he seems curious when I open a bottle. Is this a thing or should I just stick to water for him?

Hey there! Relax and give Max a little pet from me. 😊 So, about that Gatorade—while it's not toxic, it's best to stick with water for him. Gatorade is high in sugars and sodium, which dogs don't need. If Max takes a tiny sip, he's likely to be fine, but it shouldn't be a regular thing.

Here's what you can watch for if he sneaks a gulp:

• Upset stomach: Look out for vomiting or diarrhea. If mild, give it some time and make sure he has access to fresh water.
• Increased thirst or urination: This might happen if he drinks a lot due to the sugar and salt. Again, ensure he has water available.

If he does show signs of an upset stomach, it’s usually not an emergency unless it persists. Keep an eye on him for the next 24 hours. Offer him plain, bland food once his tummy settles, like boiled chicken and rice.

You should definitely call a vet if he seems very lethargic, starts twitching, has difficulty breathing, or if there's blood in his vomit or stool. These are urgent signs and need immediate attention.

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.