Canine UTI: A Serious Health Problem In Dogs
Urinary tract infection (UTI) is not only common in humans. It is common in dogs, too. This is most common in female dogs because of their short urethra, but UTI in male dogs is also probable, although rarely. In its early stages of development, UTI in dogs may not necessarily be harmful and may not exhibit obvious signs. In addition, urinary tract infection in some dogs may resolve itself within a span of time even without medical intervention. But if UTI in dogs is not treated for a long period of time, it may cause further infection and damage to the dog?s urinary system.
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.
The following are signs of female puppy UTI: 1. Frequent urination. A female puppy suffering from UTI may tend to urinate more often. This constant urination may be caused by an inflammation in its bladder. If inflammation has worsened, this frequent urination may lead to incontinence or the inability for the puppy to control the flow of its urine. 2. In contrast to frequent urination, a puppy with UTI may urinate less than usual. This condition could be caused by a blockage in the female puppy?s urethra or bladder. The blockage may be caused by the formation of stones or plugs. Although blockage is most common in male puppies, it could also happen in females. If left untreated, a complete blockage may occur and put the puppy?s life in extreme danger. 3. Excessive thirst. Female puppies with UTI may also tend to drink more water. This increase in thirst may be a sign of dehydration which may be caused by constant urination or excessive excretion of liquid from its body. 4. Bloody urine. In its advanced stage, UTI in a female puppy may result to bloody urine. This can be extremely painful to the puppy. 5. Straining to urinate. The puppy may strain to urinate but produce only trickles of urine. The puppy may also whimper when trying to urinate because of the pain that goes along with the process. 6. Lethargy. If you notice that your puppy is getting lethargic more often, or is feverish, chances are it may be suffering from female puppy UTI in its advanced stage. Treatment is a must in this condition.
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.
Trying to find a solution to UTI in dogs or looking for information on incontinence in dogs, look to the experts.
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