If your dog starts to urinate frequently, or begins to have accidents indoors, he may have a urinary tract infection. Traditionally, a UTI is treated with antibiotics, however many owners prefer to bypass traditional antibiotic treatment and use natural remedies instead.
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Causes
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The bladder is a sterile environment; when bacteria travels up the urethra and enters the bladder, an infection follows. Certain diseases and conditions can predispose your dog to a UTI, including diabetes, Cushing's disease, use of steroid medications, bladder cancer and kidney failure.
Diagnosis
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It is important to get an accurate diagnosis of your dog's symptoms as they could be indicative of a more serious disease or infection, such as diabetes, bladder cancer or a kidney infection. Your veterinarian can do a test of your dog's urine to see if white blood cells are present.
Prevention/Immunity Boosting
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Your dog can succumb to a urinary tract infection if her immune system is not functioning optimally. Keep the immune system strong by avoiding the use of steroid medications, providing sufficient clean water, a high-quality diet, daily exercise and supplementation of Echinacea, which has immune-boosting properties.
Cranberry Supplements
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Some owners prefer to avoid antibiotic treatments. Dr. Jennifer Fry, a veterinarian at the Antietam Valley Animal Hospital, recommends cranberry supplements which help to prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract. Dr. Fry also recommends providing garlic for its antibacterial qualities.
Alternate natural remedies
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Providing your dog with Vitamin C, which also has immunity-enhancing properties, or apple cider vinegar can help to neutralize harmful bacteria in the urethra.
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