How to Tell If Your Dog Has a Urinary Tract Infection
Dogs, like humans, can fall victim to a urinary tract infection. Because of their shorter urethras, female dogs are more likely to contract a UTI than males. The causes of such an infection are mainly attributed to bacteria that enters the urinary tract. Bacteria from various sources such as unclean water and contaminated food that contains E. coli or Staphylococcus can play a part in causing a urinary tract infection in a dog. The severity of the infection will dictate the presence of symptoms. In some instances, symptoms will not be present until the infection is fully developed.
Instructions
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Observe your dog when he urinates. Look for these signs of a UTI:
He seems to urinate frequently, but only produces a small amout of urine.
He appears to be straining when urinating.
He urinates in places that are inappropriate, such as inside the house.
He barks or yelps while urinating. -
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Examine the urine. If the urine has blood in it, or it smells foul, your dog may be the victim of a urinary tract infection.
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Take your pet's temperature.
Use a rectal thermometer to see if your pet has a fever. A normal reading for a dog older than 6 weeks of age is 100 to 103 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Gently feel your dog's belly in between its inner flanks. This area is located to the rear of the animal, between the hips.
If she yelps or whimpers, or if the area feels swollen, a UTI is highly likely.
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Call your veterinarian for advice, or make an appointment for your dog. You don't want to risk your dog's health.
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Tips & Warnings
Call your vet immediately if you notice blood in your dog's urine. This could be an indication of a serious medical condition.
Fever, vomiting and chills are all signs that you need to take your canine to see a vet.
