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Symptoms of Puppy UTI


28 Jun 2010

Canine urinary tract infection or canine UTI affects a substantial percentageof the entire dog population in the world. This condition happens in dogs when bacteria such as E. coli, klebsiella, coagulase positive straphylococcus, pseudomonas, esterococcus, or proteus mirabilis gain access to the dog's bladder, urethra, and the kidneys and cause infection. Dog UTI is a serious health problem in dogs. If not treated immediately, it could spread to other areas of the dog's internal system such as the heart and cause further harm and even death. Therefore, it is imperative that you bring your dog to the veterinarian immediately when you see any of the signs of canine UTI.

The symptoms of UTI in a female puppy are easy to detect if you are aware of the urinating habit of your puppy. Any signs of irregularity may signal a problem in the puppy's health.

The following are signs of female puppy UTI:

1. Frequent urination. A female puppy suffering from UTI may tend to urinate more often. This constant urination may be caused by an inflammation in its bladder. If inflammation has worsened, this frequent urination may lead to incontinence or the inability for the puppy to control the flow of its urine.

2. In contrast to frequent urination, a puppy with UTI may urinate less than usual. This condition could be caused by a blockage in the female puppy's urethra or bladder. The blockage may be caused by the formation of stones or plugs. Although blockage is most common in male puppies, it could also happen in females. If left untreated, a complete blockage may occur and put the puppy's life in extreme danger.

3. Excessive thirst. Female puppies with UTI may also tend to drink more water. This increase in thirst may be a sign of dehydration which may be caused by constant urination or excessive excretion of liquid from its body.

4. Bloody urine. In its advanced stage, UTI in a female puppy may result to bloody urine. This can be extremely painful to the puppy.

5. Straining to urinate. The puppy may strain to urinate but produce only trickles of urine. The puppy may also whimper when trying to urinate because of the pain that goes along with the process.

6. Lethargy. If you notice that your puppy is getting lethargic more often, or is feverish, chances are it may be suffering from female puppy UTI in its advanced stage. Treatment is a must in this condition.

There are natural ways to cure or prevent canine UTI from recurring. Homeopathic remedies are as effective as the best antibiotics and could help suppress the recurrence of the disease. The following are natural remedies you could try for your pet:  Uva ursi, Cantharis, Vitamin C and citrus juices, Beberis vulgaris, Staphysagris, Juniper berry,  and Goldenrod.

The first thing a veterinarian would do when you bring your dog for check-up would be to perform a physical examination on the dog. A urinalysis and blood test may also be taken. X-rays and radiographs are taken to determine if stones are present in the dog's bladder. Once the cause of the urinary tract infection is determined, the vet may then provide proper medication to the dog. Antibiotics may be given to alleviate the pain and suppress or stop the infection from spreading and causing more harm to the dog's internal system. The veterinarian may also prescribe a special diet to help increase the dog's immunity against infection.

Trying to find a solution to canine UTI or looking for information on incontinence in dogs, look no further.

Debbie Foster is the owner of Pet Beds Unlimited and an avid animal lover. You’ll find a wide selection of quality pet beds, dog crates, dog carriers, dog pens, cat beds, cat carriers, small dog beds, large dog beds, pet strollers and more at http://petbedsunlimited.com.