Can My Pets Drink Tap Water? 

The wonders and comforts of the modern world cannot be underestimated. Regardless of where you are, chances are you have almost ubiquitous access to drinkable, potable water that has been treated and purified as according to our latest standards. 

That hasn’t always been the case, however. For an exceedingly long time, we had to labor very hard and fight each other for access to water, since, unsurprisingly, it is one of the most coveted things on the planet. 

After all, we are roughly 60% composed of water, after all. 

A very common question that arises from people who learn about the failures of municipal water treatment plants is if their pets can drink the same water as they do. If you’ve been wondering, then read on for an explanation! 

Is Tap Water Safe? 

Although tap water should be safe on paper, the truth is far less impressive (and comforting!). There are a variety of reasons for this, the most prominent one being time. Because, unfortunately, time defeats everything and we have to make up for it. 

“What do you mean by this?” I hear you ask in confusion. Well, the water treatment plant that purifies your water is most likely doing a great job. There’s almost a definite accuracy when I say that more often than not, the water leaving the treatment plant is as pure and drinkable as can be. 

That makes one thing clear: water treatment plants aren’t the reason tap water is less safe than most people think. 

The real problem lies in the method of transportation we use for the water. 

Enter rusty, dirty, unkempt, clogged water pipes: the real enemy of drinking water. 

Water Pipes and Disease 

Metal doesn’t last forever: especially metal that comes into constant contact with water. Most water pipes that were installed across the country were put in the ground as much as 60 years ago, depending on where you are. 

So water pipes are old, and are falling into disrepair, yes – but what is it that actually has them contaminate the water? 

To explain the matter simply, water always has small particles or sediments present within it regardless of their level of purification. They’re so small you won’t be able to see them unless with a microscope and they usually don’t do any sort of harm. 

But if water is passed through a pipe for several dozen years in a row, then all those very, very small particles are eventually going to accumulate into a hard patch of solid matter that cannot be easily washed away. 

Even worse – when it’s washed away, it’s coming straight out of your tap. 

Potable Water and Pets 

In theory, your pets should be able to drink the same water as you are. Because they’ve most likely been domesticated and learned how to stomach what people have been drinking for thousands of years, yes, and also because their bodies are simply built differently. 

With that being said, that is also a reason for concern. We all know, for example, that dogs can’t eat chocolate, so it only goes to mind how your tap water might have been contaminated with something that could leave your dear pet sick. 

To avoid scenarios like those, my recommendation would be to opt for a home water filter. You can shoot two birds with one stone (and here’s to hoping your pets aren’t birds): the look, smell, and taste of your water will significantly improve, and your pets will be able to safely drink tap water at any time. 

In general, the rule of thumb is that if you can drink from a source of water, your pet is probably going to be fine too. 

It depends, however, on what race and breed of pet you have, as well. So don’t take my word for granted – it’s your duty to perform further research and maintain the safety of your companion! 

Keep Your Water Clean 

Between the municipal water treatment plant and your tap can arise a thousand grimy, slimy, yucky obstacles. You might not be aware of it, but millions of germs and bacteria could be swimming through the water you’d swear was perfectly fine. 

Let me tell you that it’s not. Never trust tap water fully! Take an additional measure to keep your body safe by opting for a water filter. 

Still interested in the topic? Read more info here!