Urinary tract infections occur when a dog's system is overwhelmed with bacteria. Urinary tract infections take place in any organ in the urinary tract, including the bladder, urethra and kidneys. Left untreated, a UTI can lead to renal failure. Although many people take their dogs to the vet for antibiotics for an infection, others treat their dogs on their own using supplements and natural cures.
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Cranberry Supplements
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Cranberry supplements and juice are traditional cures for urinary tract infections in people, and can also be used to treat dogs. The antioxidants and Vitamin C of cranberries naturally clean out the urinary tract and work to eradicate all signs of infections. These supplements can be fed as pills or juice, depending on which your dog accepts. It's important to ask a vet about supplements like this before giving them to your dog.
Increased Nutrition
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Any infection is more likely in a dog with a compromised immune system. Increasing the level of nutrition helps a dog gain more strength to fight against infection. Vets prescribe an altered diet for dogs with urinary tract infections, as well. Red meat is hard for the kidneys to handle, so dogs with a UTI should eat "easier" foods like chicken and lamb.
Increased Water
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One of the possible causes of a UTI is lack of available clean water. This lack causes a buildup of toxins and bacteria in the system, and particularly in the urinary tract. Increasing your dog's supply of clean water gives him a chance to increase his hydration and rinse the toxins out of his system.
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