Recognizing And Treating
Bladder Infections In Dogs
Bladder infections in dogs are often brought to an owner's attention when
their normally reliable potty-trained dog starts leaving little puddles
around the house, or wants to go outside to urinate more frequently.
Although it isn't apparent, the microscopic culprits usually responsible
for this condition, are bacteria. And once they invade the urinary system and
trigger an infection, the
result can cause a dog to experience irritation of
the urethra (the tube that carries urine to the outside), plus a burning sensation when they urinate.
This can be quite painful for them to the degree that some dogs will
actually cry from the discomfort.
One way bacteria get into your dog's urinary tract is through his water bowl,
so it is important to change his water often to ensure that it is as fresh
as possible. If you local water is not of good quality, filtered water is
a good option. You might even want to
consider a purification system for the benefit of your entire family.
In addition, it's a good idea to sanitize your dog's water bowl
when you refresh his water supply to destroy any bacteria that may be
present. Plus try to keep your dog away from drinking the water in
puddles, streams and ponds where pollution is more likely to occur.
Another important area to examine is a dog's diet. If your dog isn't
getting a well-balanced natural diet, he will likely be more prone to
bladder infections. The reason for this is that the chemicals and toxic
additives found in popular processed dog food, can alter the ph in the
urinary tract making it easier for bacteria to grow and multiply. In
addition, when bacteria get the upper hand, they can weaken the immune
system.
Bladder Infections In Dogs - Symptoms
- Your dog may appear to be straining to urinate and sometimes cry from the pain he is feeling.
- Your dog may be straining to urinate but nothing comes out. A serious symptom.
- Your dog has an urge to urinate more often, but only a small amount of cloudy-looking urine is passed.
- Your pet may be lethargic and have a lack of appetite.
- You may see some blood in the urine, plus it may have a bad odor.
- Your pet in more thirsty than normal.
- You may see your pet licking his/her genital area to relieve the stinging sensation they are feeling.
Signs of pain that persist are the most significant reason to call your vet for advice. If fever is present, it may
indicate a kidney problem, also serious.
Bladder Infections In Dogs - Treatment
Antibiotics are widely prescribed by vets to treat a number of common
dog illesses including dog bladder infection. While these drugs have certainly proven
to be effective, some experts believe they can also have adverse side
effects when used too often to treat an illness.
Pet owners who share this belief often opt to ask their vets about trying
homeopathic or other natural remedies before considering the use of conventional
drug therapies. Dr. Pitcairn, author of
Natural Health For Dogs & Cats, is an advocate
of using both natural and homeopathic approaches when appropriate, as they are designed
to be preventative approaches as opposed to just treating symptoms.
- The main thing to remember is that whenever your dog is having problems with urination,
a visit to the vet is in order to get an accurate diagnosis and discuss the treatment
options. There is always the possibility that bladder infections in dogs could indicate
the presence of bladder stones, or the crystals that can turn into stones.
There may even be an obstruction in the urinary tract which is very
serious and needs quick attention.
- On the home front, make sure your dog has plenty of fresh water
available as this will help flush out the bacteria.
- Let your dog outside frequently and take her on walks to stimulate the bladder so she has plenty of
opportunities to urinate.
- Many vets suggest giving a small amount of citrus juice daily. This is to make the urine more acidic and less friendly
to bacteria and to provide some relief when urination is causing pain.
Preventing Bladder Infections In Dogs
- My number one suggestion for prevention is to make sure
your dog is receiving a natural diet containing a proper balance of proteins, fats and carbohydrates,
as the ideal. In my opinion, nothing can influence a dog's long term health and immunity to disease more than
eating wholesome food.
If your dog has frequent health related issues, make sure his food is free of chemicals. Take a look at
this page for some dietary options.
- Provide daily supplements to strengthen his urinary tract, including: a B Complex formula,
cod liver oil, buffered vitamin C and vitamin E. Ask your vet about the appropriate amounts your pet should receive.
Bladder infections in dogs are just one of many illnesses that can crop up during your pet's
lifetime. To become a more informed dog owner when it comes to recognizing various dog health
conditions and their treatment, I recommend you obtain a copy of
Veterinary Secrets Revealed. This e-book, written by a qualified vet contains information about
numerous dog health issues, useful home remedies, plus advice about which dog illnesses need a
consultation with a pet professional.
Related Pages:
Back To Dog Health
TOP Of Page - Bladder Infections In Dogs
