Almost every dog park has one: a bucket or bowl by the gate, topped up now and then by a kind visitor. It’s a generous gesture, but a shared bowl of standing water isn’t the healthiest way for dozens of dogs to drink.
What can live in a shared bowl
Standing water collects saliva from every dog that drinks, plus dirt, leaves and insects. Warm weather helps bacteria multiply. Shared water is one way communicable illnesses such as kennel cough and giardia can pass between dogs, and still water can also attract mosquitoes.
Lower-risk options
- Bring your own. A collapsible bowl and a water bottle are the simplest option for owners.
- Use flowing water. A fountain that delivers fresh water on demand means no dog drinks after another from the same standing water.
How Cool Dog fountains handle it
On the Cool Dog Water Fountain, a self-closing push button fills a stainless steel bowl only when a dog needs a drink, and the bowl drains quickly afterward. No standing water, no slimy bowls and no “mystery water” for dogs to step in or drink.
If your park still relies on a communal bowl, it may be time for an upgrade. See all our fountains.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. If you are worried about a dog’s health, call a veterinarian.
Planning a project? Contact us for a quote or call 800.931.1562, and we’ll help you choose the right fountain for your site.