Urinary tract infections are a common issue for dogs, especially female dogs or dogs that are more susceptible to infection. Although the signs and symptoms do not vary with age, it can be more difficult to tell if an older dog has a UTI due to the fact that he may already have decreased energy levels. If you suspect a urinary tract infection, monitor your dog closely and take him to the vet if you think there is an issue that needs to be addressed.
Things You'll Need
- pH sticks
- Puppy pad or newspaper
Instructions
Monitor your dog. Take a look at his urine each time he urinates. Signs of a UTI include pus, blood, and/or cloudy or foul-smelling urine.
Look for signs in his behavior. Accidents in otherwise housebroken dogs are sometimes a tipoff. This can also be due to old age, so you will need to look at these episodes in context with other symptoms.
Note his overall health. Signs he may be suffering from a UTI include fatigue, lethargy, vomiting, licking his genitals and increased thirst.
Purchase a pH testing kit and some "puppy pads." These puppy pads can be purchased at any pet store and are usually sold as "puppy training pads."
Test the pH of your dog's urine by encouraging him to urinate on a newspaper or puppy pad. Wait for your dog to urinate on the puppy pad or newspaper and stick the pH stick in the fresh urine. Use the instructions on the pH sticks as guidelines. If your dog's urine is not between 6 and 7, this indicates an a possible UTI. Call his vet right away and make an appointment. She can help treat his infection by prescribing antibiotics.
Wash your hands with soap and water after properly disposing of the pH test stick and the soiled newspaper or pad.