The summers here in Phoenix, AZ are harsh. They're akin to extreme winter conditions elsewhere. Basically, everyone hibernates in their air-conditioned homes, and if we do have to go out, outdoor activities are kept to a minimum. It can be 120º + during the peak of the season.
Keeping well hydrated in these conditions is essential. We're basically constantly sweating for three months of the year, so we have to be careful about dehydration. My family drinks coconut water as an alternative to regular water, so when I learned that such a wonder as coconut water existed for dogs, I was very intrigued. It's called Viva Coco, the all natural coconut water dog beverage. Aside from providing dogs with something a bit more exciting to drink than plain water day in and day out, the benefits of coconut water for dogs are akin to those for humans:
• 100% natural
• contains essential electrolytes for hydration
• supports a healthy immune system
• supports healthy bones and joints
• supports skin and coat health
I also love the fact that Viva Coco contains no GMO ingredients or artificial preservatives or flavors. Plus, it comes in powder form, which means it's convenient, environmentally friendly, and doesn't cost a boat-load to ship. Awesome.
But then, I wondered, would my picky dog go for it, or would she become ironically dehydrated in protest? When I mixed the powder into her water, I grew even more concerned. My girl refuses water if there's a tiny piece of food in it, so I didn't think for a million years that she'd drink this cloudy water. (Just like regular coconut water, this stuff is cloudy.)
Boy, was I wrong! She sniffed it, backed up, looked at me, and then went right for it! She told me by her enthusiasm that she was happy with it. I happened to have a client pooch staying with me at the time, so after N.A.S.H.A. drank half the bowl and walked away, our visitor went up to bat and finished it off. Taste test successful!
I'm especially excited about Viva Coco because it would be a fantastic beverage to bring along our frequent hikes at South Mountain, which can be taxing even in the cooler months. I can feel good about giving it to my dog because it's natural and environmentally friendly, plus provides the essential electrolytes that plain water doesn't have. Good stuff, all paws up!
Viva Coco is generously offering a full pack of their coconut water powder to three well minded readers ($19.99 value each). Please enter for a chance to give it a try (open to U.S. residents only).
Cheers!