Dogs are commonly called man's best friend. But sometimes, your best friend can get sick, just like a human can. One common infection in dogs is the bladder infection. Bladder infections occur when the normally sterile urine contains bacteria. It can be incredibly painful for your dog. In extreme cases, bladder infections can lead to kidney stones. Fortunately, bladder infections are completely treatable if tended to quickly.
Things You'll Need
- Dog's urination sample
Instructions
Call you veterinarian or a local veterinarian clinic. Request an appointment with a doctor, as soon as possible, if not immediately. It can be difficult to tell if your dog has a bladder infection. However, if your dog is urinating frequently, having accidents in the house or straining when urinating, he may have a bladder infection. Cloudy or bloody urine are both strong symptoms of a bladder infection.
Take your dog into the doctor's office. Bring the dog's urination sample, if requested. If you are having difficultly procuring a urination sample, contact the vet's office for assistance or use online directions (see Resources).
Ask the doctor for a antibiotic prescription to treat the bladder infection. Antibiotics are usually oral pills taken over 2-3 weeks. Two main prescribed antibiotics are Sulfadimethoxine and Cephalexin. Sulfadimethoxine and Cephalexin are usually prescribed in gel tablets or in liquid form. Side effects of Sulfadimethoxine include dry eyes and urinary crystal formation. Side effects of Cephalexin include dry eyes, diarrhea and nausea. Ask your doctor about other serious side effects.
Return to the doctor's office with another urine sample. The doctor will test the sample to determine that the infection is gone. If not, a heavier dose of antibiotics may be prescribed. Your animal's doctor will discuss further courses of treatment.