Veterinarian Holly Nash states on PetEducation.com that approximately 14 percent of all dogs will have a urinary tract infection at some point during their lifetimes. The majority of these infections occur because bacteria was able to enter the urinary tract, usually through the urethra, or urinary opening. However, UTIs may also occur because of fungi or viruses that have entered the urinary tract. Dogs who are suffering from a bacterial urinary tract infection may receive antibiotics for treatment.
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Signs of a Canine UTI
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Generally, the signs of a urinary tract infection are straightforward and are related to the dog's bathroom habits and behaviors. For example, the dog may only be able to allow small amounts of urine out but he may require more frequent bathroom breaks to do so. This is called poillakiuria. Some dogs may suffer from dysuria, which is painful urination and may be seen as whining when attempting to urinate. Hematuria, or blood in the urine, may also be present with a canine UTI.
Types
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The standard type of antibiotic given to dogs with a urinary tract infection will come from the penicillin group. The specific brand or generic name may vary based on the dog's health, severity and type of infection as well as breed and any allergies the dog may have. More severe infections may require the use of amoxicillin. The dosage amount for either of these medications will vary based on the dog's weight.
Length
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The standard length of treatment for a canine urinary tract infection is a minimum of seven days to 10 days on a prescribed antibiotic. More severe treatments may require longer administration of the antibiotic. However, the additional time on the antibiotic would been dependent on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the veterinarian's expertise on the individual case. Veterinarian Debra Primovic of PetPlace.com adds that the best time to administer a dog's antibiotics is in the morning or in the evening.
Side Effects
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In dogs, certain antibiotics may have different side effects. The owner may notice that their dog is suffering from diarrhea or nausea, though nausea may be more difficult for the owner to recognize. Also, severe or persistent diarrhea should be brought to the attention of a veterinarian immediately, as it can lead to dehydration and severe illness. Some dogs may also become more lethargic while taking the antibiotic, though this should resolve itself once the medication is discontinued.
Warning
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When any type of medication is prescribed, including antibiotics, the owner must give the medication for the full prescription length unless severe side effects occur. In the case of a urinary tract infection, it is not uncommon for the symptoms to clear up within the first few days―making the owner think the infection is gone. However, this is not true and if the owner were to stop administering the medication, the infection would simply reoccur.
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