Urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur when bacteria overcome your puppy's immune system. They occur more frequently in female dogs because, similar to humans, their urethra is shorter and it is easier for bacteria to travel there. Veterinarians may prescribe antibiotics for your puppy once she diagnoses a UTI. However, there are home remedies that can both treat and prevent your pup from contracting a UTI.
-
Symptoms
-
Although symptoms may not always be present when a puppy has a UTI, many will whimper when urinating because of the pain they are experiencing. It can suggest that the infection has advanced. Dogs may also vomit or stop eating completely, which causes them to lose weight when suffering from a UTI.
You may also notice a change in your puppy's urinating schedule, characterized by either increased or decreased urination. Your pup may also be going to the bathroom in inappropriate places. If this is uncommon, it is a sign of a UTI. You may also notice your dog will drink excessive amounts of water. Blood in the urine and a foul smell also indicate a UTI.
If your puppy is continually trying to urinate and cannot go, he probably has a UTI.
Home Remedies
-
Orange juice neutralizes the bacteria in the urine, which can help with the pain your puppy experiences when urinating
Apple cider vinegar can have the same effect as the orange juice. Add 1/2 tsp. of apple cider vinegar to your dog's food once per day, or to your dog's water.
Tomato juice with oregano oil may also treat a UTI by balancing the pH level. Tomato juice is acidic, which will create a less than ideal environment for bacteria to thrive and lessen the pain your puppy experiences when urinating.
Garlic is a natural antibiotic. It is not recommended to give your puppy raw garlic, so check with your vet about which garlic supplements are safe.
Rose hips, which are a good source of Vitamin C, will increase the acidity of your puppy's urine. Contact your vet to ensure this supplement is OK for your pet.
Baking soda will also raise the acidity of your puppy's urine. Put 1/2 tsp. of baking soda in your pup's 12 oz. water bowl.
An over-the-counter homeopathic remedy, UTI-Free, is offered in pinch-sized doses dependent upon the weight of your puppy.
Prevention
-
Take your puppy for walks or let her out to go to the bathroom frequently. Holding it will cause bacteria to build and make its way to the urethra.
Ensure your dog has easy access to a water supply. Water will encourage more urination, which will clean the bacteria away. Most importantly, make sure this water is not contaminated.
Bathing your dog on a weekly basis will ensure bacteria will not get into the urethra.
Offer your dog orange juice. The citrus will cause your dog's urine to become more acidic, which will help clean the bacteria. Your dog may not like the taste of orange juice, so be sure to dilute it with water.
Take your dog for regular checkups. This will ensure the best possibility for catching any health conditions early.
-