Canine UTI: A Serious Health Problem in Dogs

Posted by Geraldine Dimarco

March 19, 2009

by Geraldine Dimarco

Canine urinary tract infection or canine UTI affects approximately 14% of the entire dog population in the world. This condition happens in dogs when bacteria such as E. coli, klebsiella, coagulase positive straphylococcus, pseudomonas, esterococcus, or proteus mirabilis gain access to the dog?s bladder, urethra, and the kidneys and cause infection. Dog UTI is a serious health problem in dogs. If not treated immediately, it could spread to other areas of the dog?s internal system such as the heart and cause further harm and even death. Therefore, it is imperative that you bring your dog to the veterinarian immediately when you see any of the signs of canine UTI.

Dogs do not have the gift of speech and, therefore, cannot tell their human owners that they are suffering from a discomfort. As an owner, it is up to you to tell if the dog is suffering from a symptom of UTI. Symptoms of UTI in dogs include fatigue, lethargy, fever, bloody urine, a foul-smell in the urine, tenderness of the lower stomach area, constant licking of the genital area, incontinence and urinating in inappropriate places, and straining to urinate. Once any of these signs are noticed, it is wise to bring the dog to the veterinarian.

These signs are closely associated with canine UTI but may also be symptoms of other urinary problems in dogs. In some instances, dogs which have already been diagnosed and treated with dog UTI contract a recurrence of the disease. This happens when bacteria have developed immunity to the antibiotics and treatment given. In cases such as these, the veterinarian would have to perform appropriate course of action to prevent another recurrence of the disease.

Female puppy UTI could cause a lot of discomfort to the puppy. It is important that as a dog owner, you take the necessary precautions to keep your puppy free from infection. Female puppies are especially prone to UTI, so you must see to it that you give it proper care daily. Giving it enough amount of clean water to drink everyday and washing it regularly would help. Likewise, you may give it a dose of homeopathic remedy to help keep its immune system strong to fight against infections. Most importantly, bring it to the vet immediately when you suspect it is suffering from any of the symptoms of female puppy UTI.

The first thing a veterinarian would do when you bring your dog for check-up would be to perform physical examination on the dog. A urinalysis and blood test may also be taken. X-rays and radiographs are taken to determine if stones are present in the dog?s bladder. Once the cause of the urinary tract infection is determined, the vet may then perform proper medication to the dog. Antibiotics may be given to alleviate the pain and suppress or stop the infection from spreading and causing more harm to the dog?s internal system. The veterinarian may also prescribe a special diet to help increase the dog?s immunity against infection.

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