Canine UTI Protocol

Approximately 2 to 3 percent of all dogs experience urinary tract infections (UTI) at some point during their lives. Bacterial infection enters the body via the urethra and colonizes in the urinary tract prior to proceeding into the bladder.

  1. Urinary Tract Infection

    • A urinary tract infection causes inflammation in the urethra, narrowing the tube and resulting in difficult urination. As less urine passes through the body, other troubles, such as bladder stones, may arise.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms related to UTI include, but are not limited to, difficulty urinating, painful or frequent urination, incontinence, odorous urination and urinating in unacceptable locations. A complete urinalysis ordered by a veterinarian tests the urine's composition and pH levels while seeking the presence of blood or crystals.

    Proper Protocol

    • Antibiotics treat bacterial infections in 10 to 14 days, giving animals relief within about 48 hours. Stubborn infections can hold on a bit longer, requiring more intense treatment that lasts up to 6 weeks. Another urinalysis after antibiotic treatment confirms the infection is gone.

      Keeping the dog urinating after successful UTI treatment keeps future infections at bay. The more the dog drinks, the more he urinates. Fresh water keeps the urinary tract clean by keeping the urine flowing. Even during antibiotic treatment, fruit juice, particularly cranberry juice, improves the urine's pH levels. Frequent walking ensures urination, as dogs naturally urinate more when walked, moving urine through the bladder and preventing bacterial takeover.