Saturday, October 4, 2008

Understanding Urinary Tract Infections in Dogs

By Einar Eskeland

Urinary tract infection in dogs is also known as acute cystitis and involves a bacterial infection in the dog's urinary tract. Once bacteria multiply from a single location they can spread through the dog's body, gradually increasing symptoms and ill health. For the best results bring your dog to the veterinarian whenever symptoms become pronounced. A qualified veterinarian will be able to diagnose the dog's condition (which may be urinary tract infection in dogs or maybe other related physical problems) as well as prescribe powerful medication that can get rid of the infection. When the veterinarian sees the pet he or she must first determine the scope of the disease. The more severe the infection the more complicated procedures may be required. For less concerning cases, light medication or even no medication may be given.

The vet may also advise you to alter the pet's diet. You may have to buy specially made dog food rather than grocery store style selection. You may also have to administer medication to your animal, like antibiotics. Usually doctors put dogs through a sensitivity test before subscribing heavy antibiotics since there is the potential for adverse reactions. If the dog shows any side effects the dosage will be decreased or another type of drug may be given instead. Besides, antibiotics, anti-microbial drugs might be prescribed for a few weeks.

You may be tempted to play doctor and try to self-medicate your pet if you believe urinary tract infection in dogs may be the problem. After all, couldn't you just give your pet a small dosage of your own antibiotics? Humans suffer from UTI too-all you would have to do is administer just a smaller "doggy dose", right? Wrong. Dogs have a completely different physical makeup than human beings. What we consider a small dosage, to a dog could be an overdose or could cause other unnatural side effects. Put your dog's health above convenience and consult a veterinarian, for a consultation if nothing else.

You will have to closely monitor your pet even after the condition improves following treatment. It is a mistake to assume that just because your dog looks and feels better that the infection is going away. On the contrary, there may be post medication treatment necessary if the infection is to be completely ridden. You must also take preventive care so that infection doesn't return and also arrange for regular vet checkups.

Recommended Treatments For Urinary Tract Infections In Dogs

Every dog requires a personal evaluation from a vet if there is the possibility of urinary tract infection in dogs. However, here are some of the most common treatments recommended by mainstream veterinarians as well as holistic vets. Holistic vets do not use traditional medication but encourage pet owners to use natural remedies so as to strengthen the dog's immune system. After all, the stronger the immune system, the better the dog will be able to resist the infection. Most of these holistic remedies will be combinations of herbal and homeopathic ingredients. There are many natural substances that can help pets with pain, bacterial infection and healthy urinary function. These might include cranberry, Vitamin C and many other natural substances.

One of the first things the vet will probably recommend is that you switch to a chemical-free diet for your dog. Many cheap dog foods (the type you find in convenience or grocery stores) have chemical additives, preservatives and artificial colors. These may not directly cause infections, but let's just say they don't help. If your pet is struggling with urinary tract infection in dogs, or kidney problems, then the first thing you want to do is get it on a healthy diet. Water is also very important and it should be fresh and clean. If you give your pet nothing but nasty or chemical-infused water, then it won't be inclined to drink. If your pet hesitates to drink then try moistening their dry food with water or chicken broth.


For more information on urinary tract infections in dogs visit http://www.pet-bladder-treatment.com

My name is Einar Eskeland. I am a Norwegian medical doctor and homoeopath. I promote several high quality sources of knowledge and products for self improvement, health, evolution and growth as a part of my practice as a doctor, and as a help for my patients in their struggle to regain health and balance. http://www.pet-bladder-treatment.com/

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