Urinary tract infections (or UTIs) are a common ailment in dogs. According to Go Pets America, urinary tract infections occur when bacteria enters the urinary system. Female dogs are more at risk for these infections, and it is most often seen in Miniature Poodles, Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds.
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Prevention
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According to VetInfo4Dogs.com, the best form of prevention for a urinary tract infection in a dog is to make sure she is kept clean. Regular baths prevent bacteria from entering into the urinary system and causing contamination.
Making sure that your dog is allowed to relieve himself frequently also prevents urinary tract infections from forming. Dogs should be provided with plenty of water so that their systems can be regularly flushed, and taken out frequently to empty their bladders. Natural-Pet-Care.com also recommends keeping the environment around your dog clean and emptying uneaten food frequently so that your dog does not ingest bacteria.
Cranberry is an herbal supplement that aids in urinary health, and may be a good preventative solution for your dog.
Symptoms
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A urinary tract infection is an easily recognizable ailment in your dog. Some of the symptoms include frequent urination, incontinence of urine, blood in the urine, dehydration, overdrinking and swelling of the belly. If no urine is present when the dog squats to urinate, this can be a sign of a more serious bladder issue.
Treatment
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You can also treat your dog's UTI naturally. Tess Thompson of PetAlive states that the majority of herbal supplements that are used in urinary health for humans are also beneficial for dogs. Some herbal recommendations include garlic, echinacea, rosehips, buchu, cranberry and yarrow. Other homeopathic remedies include apple cider vinegar and citrus juice, which aid in neutralizing bacteria in the urinary system.
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