Has your perfectly house-trained dog suddenly started having accidents indoors? Before frustration sets in, consider that your furry friend might be dealing with a urinary tract infection (UTI). These painful infections can affect dogs of all ages and breeds, causing distress for both pets and their owners.
At i-Care Veterinary Hospital in Coombs, BC, we regularly treat dogs with UTIs. This guide will help you understand the signs, diagnosis process, and treatment options available for this common condition.
Warning Signs: How to Recognize a Potential UTI
Watch for these common symptoms that may indicate your dog has a UTI:
- Urinating inside the house despite being house-trained
- Dribbling small amounts of urine throughout the day
- More frequent urination than normal
- Darker yellow or blood-tinged urine
- Strong-smelling urine
- Straining or crying during urination
- Excessive licking of the genital area
- Scooting behaviour
- Occasional vomiting or reduced appetite
While some of these symptoms (like vomiting and scooting) aren’t directly related to UTIs, they can be important clues that something isn’t right with your dog’s health.
What Causes UTIs in Dogs?
UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract, typically through the urethra, and begin multiplying in the bladder. Female dogs are more susceptible due to their shorter urethras, but male dogs can also develop these infections.
Risk factors include:
- Previous UTI history
- Underlying health conditions like diabetes or bladder stones
- Hormonal imbalances
- Anatomical abnormalities
- Weakened immune system
- Improper hygiene
The Veterinary Visit: What to Expect
When you bring your dog to our clinic with suspected UTI symptoms, our veterinarians will conduct a thorough examination and ask detailed questions about your pet’s behaviour changes.
Diagnostic Process
Our team follows these steps to diagnose UTIs:
- Sterile urine collection using ultrasound guidance to extract urine directly from the bladder
- In-house urinalysis checking for white blood cells, bacteria, crystals, and protein
- Microscopic examination for detailed analysis
- Urine culture submission to an external laboratory in cases of recurring infections
This comprehensive approach helps us identify not only the presence of infection but also any underlying causes that might contribute to recurring UTIs.
Treatment Plan: Quick Relief and Long-Term Solutions
Based on diagnostic results, our veterinarians develop a personalized treatment plan that typically includes:
- Appropriate antibiotic therapy based on urinalysis findings or culture results
- Pain management if your dog is experiencing discomfort
- Medication for incontinence if needed, particularly for spayed females
- Treatment of any underlying conditions contributing to the UTI
- Follow-up testing to ensure the infection has cleared
When to Call Your Vet: Don’t Wait on These Symptoms
Although not necessarily an emergency, a urinary tract infection can still require urgent care from a veterinarian.
If your dog shows any of these signs, please contact your veterinarian promptly:
- Multiple accidents in the house (especially in a well-trained dog)
- Frequent urination with small amounts
- Straining or crying while urinating
- Blood in the urine
- Excessive licking of the urinary opening
- Strong-smelling urine
- Lethargy or decreased appetite
Preventing Future UTIs: Keeping Your Dog Healthy
While not all UTIs can be prevented, these steps may help reduce your dog’s risk:
- Ensure fresh, clean water is always available
- Provide frequent opportunities to urinate (at least 3-4 times daily)
- Maintain regular bathing and grooming, especially around the urinary area
- Consider cranberry supplements for dogs with recurrent UTIs (ask your vet first)
- Complete the full course of antibiotics when prescribed
- Schedule regular wellness exams to catch potential issues early
UTI Treatment Success Stories
Many dogs we treat for UTIs respond well to treatment and return to their normal, happy selves after completing their medication. Proper diagnosis and targeted treatment can quickly resolve discomfort and prevent complications from developing.
For dogs with recurring infections, we work closely with pet parents to identify any underlying causes and develop long-term management strategies that keep their furry family members comfortable and healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Canine UTIs
Q: How common are UTIs in dogs?
A: UTIs affect approximately 14% of dogs during their lifetime, with females being more susceptible than males.
Q: Will my dog need long-term medication for recurrent UTIs?
A: Some dogs with structural abnormalities or chronic conditions may need ongoing management, but many respond well to targeted treatment.
Q: Are certain breeds more prone to UTIs?
A: While any dog can develop a UTI, breeds with known urinary tract issues like Bichons, Shih Tzus, and Bulldogs may have a higher predisposition.
We’re Here For Your Pet’s Urinary Health
At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we understand the worry that comes when your pet isn’t feeling well. Our compassionate team is committed to diagnosing and treating urinary issues quickly to restore your dog’s comfort and your peace of mind.
Located in Coombs, BC, and serving pet families across Vancouver Island, our team is dedicated to helping your pets live their healthiest and happiest lives.
If your dog is showing any symptoms of a UTI, please contact us to schedule an appointment.