Wednesday, October 22, 2008

How to Recognize a Canine Urinary Tract Infection

By Tina Matsunaga

By the time you finish reading this; hopefully you will understand how important it is to have your dog check out right away, if you suspect a canine urinary tract infection. He is counting on you to understand the signs and symptoms, and take him to the vet before it can become an even more serious health issue. Without medication, the infection will only get worse, spreading to other organs like the kidneys, which can potentially be life threatening.

If you pet has a dog urinary tract infection, you should recognize these symptoms:


  • Urinating in the house

  • Needing to go often

  • Greater output

  • Tender abdomen

  • Lethargy

Urinating inside, after being housebroken, is not normal. Therefore, if he eliminates on the carpet, furniture, or bedding, you know it is time to seek professional help. Your pet is probably suffering from a canine urinary tract infection, and is simply incontinent.

If your dog still manages to make it outside, but the begging at the door is becoming a constant thing, it is time to get him checked out. If you delay, it is likely the spread to other organs, and become a much more serious problem.

Hopefully, before behavior gets out of control, you will notice that your dog is going to the potty a lot. In addition, the volume of output has increased in conjunction with a greater need for water. Something is definitely wrong. If it is not a canine urinary tract infection, it can be something more life threatening to the health of your pet. So, it is imperative to seek medical help right away.

Maybe your pooch has not gotten to the point of exhibiting the other symptoms, but seems to have a tender belly and whines a lot. In other words, he or she is simply not acting normal. It could be a sign of a urinary tract infection or something worse. Again, it is time to go to the vet. Especially, in older dogs, the illness can go from bad to worse rather quickly.

Finally, although dogs are known to sleep many hours of the day, lethargy and loss of appetite is often a symptom of illness. It is also one of the signs of a canine urinary tract infection. No dog can resist going for walks, cuddling, or begging for more when being petted. However, if pain has become a constant, it may be another sign of having an infection.

Do yourself a favor and take your pet to the vet right away, if you suspect a canine urinary tract infection. Delaying can mean unnecessary pain for your furry companion. Dogs are notoriously loyal, no matter what. However, your pet is counting on you for his or her care and comfort. He is your best friend. He watches out for you, when you are all alone. Chances are he is fiercely protective. However, now the tables are turned. He needs you to notice when he is not feeling well and be his protector for now.


Tina Matsunaga is a freelance writer for home-based businesses, Internet marketers, and professionals around the world. She enjoys working at home while raising 2 children. She holds a BA in English and secondary education from Regis University.

For more information, please visit http://www.pet-bladder-treatment.com

No comments: