K9 Bladder Infections
Canine bladder infections are not unusual in dogs. They are more common in female dogs than in males because females have a wider and shorter urethra, making bacteria easier to reach the bladder.
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Symptoms
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Symptoms of a bladder infection in a dog can include needing to urinate more frequently, urinating in the house, straining while urinating, blood in the urine, foul-smelling urine, tenderness in the lower abdomen and fatigue.
Identification
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Your veterinarian will take a urine sample to test for the presence of bacteria. If you can get a urine sample at home, this is helpful. If not, your vet will insert a catheter into the bladder and obtain the sample.
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Treatment
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Bladder infections in dogs are treated with oral antibiotics. Treatment typically lasts for 14 days. Make certain your dog finishes the entire course of antibiotics, even if his symptoms clear up before the treatment is finished.
Warning
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Serious complications can occur if your dog's bladder infection is left untreated. Kidney infections and kidney damage are complications of untreated bladder infections.
Considerations
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Always make sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water, especially while recovering from a bladder infection. Drinking water and urinating will help flush the bacteria from your dog's bladder.
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