A Comprehensive Review on Fluid Therapy in Dogs: Principles, Physiology and Clinical Applications

Abstract

Fluid therapy is the process of replacing fluids lost by the body through evaporation from the skin and respiratory tract, urine, feces, and pathological losses from diarrhea or vomiting. A common component of veterinary patient care is fluid therapy, which is necessary for a variety of clinical conditions ranging from milder ones like acute gastritis, which causes short-term inadequate voluntary intake to more moderate ones like chronic kidney disease to life-threatening emergencies like shock and significant volume loss. Total body water (TBW) accounts for about 60% of an adult animal's body weight and for 80% of newborn animals. TBW is found in the extracellular fluid (ECF) (about 33%) and the intracellular compartment (about 66%). Determining hydration status can be done using a number of fundamental tests like measurement of the skin’s moisture content, or turgor, and is one of the easiest methods. A turgor evaluation is performed by pulling the skin across the lumbar region or thorax. With a well-hydrated animal, the skin returns to its normal resting position. If the tent is more, it may be a sign of dehydration. The four primary routes of fluid transport are oral, subcutaneous (SC), intraosseous, and intravenous (IV) and intraperitoneal route. Intravenous and intraosseous methods give direct access to intravascular space; they are the most effective for critical conditions of animal individuals. IV fluid administration is typically used for hospitalized patients because the distribution rate may be readily controlled and altered based on medical needs. “The review highlights decision-making criteria for selecting appropriate fluid types and routes, with emphasis on physiological principles, clinical assessment of dehydration, and evidence-based therapeutic strategies.”