Urinary tract infections are painful, inconvenient and potentially life-threatening. It's worth the effort required to learn how to prevent these troublesome ailment. UTIs are caused by a build up of bacteria---usually e. Coli--in the bladder and often lead to the formation of bladder stones and crystals. These stones or crystals restrict the flow of urine and irritate the bladder, exacerbating symptoms and prolonging the condition.
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Food and Water
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Encourage your dog to urinate frequently. More frequent urination helps to flush the bladder of toxins. If possible, give your dog filtered or spring water. To increase water intake, add water or unsalted chicken broth to dry dog food.
Walk your dog! Exercise stimulates the bladder and encourages urination. The longer your dog is required to "hold it", the more likely it is that bacteria will build up.
Read the labels on your dog food bag. If a named meat is not the first ingredient, consider making a change. Avoid foods that contain wheat or corn gluten. Wheat gluten has been linked to recent pet food contamination and recalls and corn gluten is a common allergen.
Avoid chemical preservatives such as ethoxyquin, BHA, BHT or Propyl Gallate. These ingredients can cause allergic reactions in some dogs and may compromise your
Supplements
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Cranberry juice has long been recommended for UTIs in people. Cranberries contain tannins, a compound that prevents the attachment of e. Coli to the walls of the urinary tract. Cranberry's benefits are available in supplement form---mix it in with your dog's daily meals to prevent a bacterial infection. Blueberry extract contains similar compounds and works in a similar way.
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system and acidifies the urine. Acidic urine interferes with bacterial growth and can reverse a nascent bladder infection.
Other supplements that can benefit a UTI-prone dog include uva-ursi and bilberry. Try adding some fresh parsley to your dog's rations---it contains antimicrobial properties that can offer some protection as well.
Other Prevention Techniques
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Keep your dog clean. Female dogs in particular are prone to UTIs because their urethra is short. Bacteria can travel the short distance to the bladder and cause an infection. Dogs that were spayed very young may be at more risk. If you dog suffers from recurrent UTIs, give her a quick wipe after she urinates.
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