The kidneys act as a filtering system in your dog's blood stream, removing toxic waste in the form of urine and balancing water and electrolyte levels. The kidneys also produce hormones that contribute to red blood cell production and control blood pressure. Your dog has two bean-shaped kidneys on each side of the spine, near the last set of ribs. Kidney infections (pyelonephritis) can be caused by bacteria or a congenital defect.
Instructions
Watch Signs of Kidney Infection
Monitor her urinary habits. The most common symptom of any kind of urinary tract disturbance is frequent urination. Sometimes your dog will strain to urinate or pass very small quantities. She may cry or show signs of pain while urinating.
Watch her water intake. Increased thirst is a warning sign of kidney disease or infection.
Take her temperature. A kidney infection will elevate your dog's temperature. Be familiar with your dog's normal body temperature -- learn to take and record her temperature before an emergency or illness. A normal rectal temperature is between 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If you use an ear thermometer, the temperature should read between 100.0 degrees and 103.0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Watch for vomiting. Chronic vomiting is always a cause for concern because it can cause dehydration. If your dog is showing any signs of fever or urinary distress combined with vomiting, suspect a urinary or kidney infection.
Feel her belly. Kidney infections will cause pain in and around her flanks. Gently press the area on either side of her belly near the rear legs. Any sign of pain -- flinching or crying out -- is an indication of infection.
Take a urine sample. At this point, you will need to have your dog's urine tested. Obtain a fresh urine sample in a clean, dry container and bring it to the vet as quickly as possible. If you're not able to get a sample, your veterinarian can manually express the bladder or use a catheter or needle to acquire a sample.