There’s nothing worse than seeing your dog in pain. Especially if you could have caught the cause of their pain earlier and saved them so much suffering. DogInsider.com offers the latest advice to dog owners who are worried about urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Did you know that around 27% of dogs in the US suffer from UTIs? It's a surprisingly common issue, but detecting it in our pets can be tricky. Fortunately, DogInsider.com has recently published some advice on recognizing and treating UTIs in dogs.
You can access their guide for free at https://doginsider.com/recognizing-and-treating-urinary-tract-infections-in-dogs/
Early detection is key to addressing UTIs effectively. Watch out for these signs in your canine companion:
Frequent Genital Licking
We know that, especially male dogs, have a comic reputation for fixating on this particular body area, but if you notice your pup constantly licking their genital area, it could be a sign of discomfort. UTIs cause irritation of the skin in and around the urethra – best to get it checked out.
Cloudy Urine
Just like with humans, this is an indicator that infection-causing bacteria are present in your dog’s urinary tract or bladder. It can also indicate dehydration, so you should encourage them to drink plenty of water to flush out any harmful bacteria and get their immune system up and running.
Blood in Urine
This one can be alarming if you spot it. Whilst a symptom of UTIs, it can also indicate other problems that your vet should check out. Make an emergency appointment right away.
Decreased Appetite
A sudden loss of interest in food can be a red flag to show they are feeling under the weather – especially if your pooch is usually quite happy to chow down on kibble and treats! Monitor what they are eating and how much so that you can report any changes to your vet.
Increased Thirst or Urination
If your dog is suddenly drinking more water and/or urinating more frequently, it can indicate that their instincts are telling them to try to flush their system. You can help by offering fresh, clean water and monitoring how much they are urinating, as well as how frequently. This is all useful information for your vet to make a diagnosis.
If your dog’s behavior has you concerned, follow DogInsider.com’s advice, and contact your vet as soon as possible.
Our pets can't communicate when they're feeling unwell, so it's up to us to be vigilant. If you notice any worrying changes in their doggy habits, it's best to reach out to your vet without delay. UTIs can cause pain and irritation for our furry friends, and if left untreated, they can lead to severe complications such as kidney damage, bladder stones, fever, and dehydration.
No one likes to watch their pet suffer so, besides preventing a UTI in the first place, treating them early is your best hope.
DogInsider has expert tips to help keep your dog's urinary tract healthy:
Hydration
Ensure your dog has access to plenty of fresh, clean water every day. Proper hydration supports their immune system in fighting off bacteria that can cause infections.
Balanced Diet
Feeding your dog a balanced diet packed with essential nutrients is, well, essential. A healthy diet contributes to overall well-being and helps maintain their immune system.
Exercise
As with a good diet, getting plenty of exercise improves your pup’s overall health and keeps their furry bodies ready to fight off any nasty infections that might come their way.
If you’re lucky enough to have lots of dogs in your home, be aware that UTIs can easily be passed between them. To prevent transmission or reinfection, take some extra precautions. Regularly change water bowls, blankets, and bedding to keep everything clean and hygienic.
Knowing how to spot and treat UTIs in dogs can make a world of difference in your beloved pet's life. Don't forget that early detection is key, so pay close attention to your dog's behavior and keep an eye out for those warning signs. If you suspect a UTI, don't hesitate to contact your vet.
We all want our four-legged friends to stay happy and healthy, and DogInsider.com has lots of articles, tips, and advice from experts and doggy enthusiasts on everything from health and nutrition to training and senior dog care. Get the dog care guidance you need from a supportive community of like-minded dog lovers at https://doginsider.com
