What to do if your pet dog has a urinary tract infection

Most urinary tract infections in pets are bacterial in nature and sensitive to antibiotics. You can use amoxicillin and clavulanate combined with a mucosal protectant such as sodium citrate. Note that the use of antibiotics should be monitored and bacteria may develop resistance. It is recommended to go to the hospital for a checkup to determine the cause of the urinary tract infection, and then choose the specific antibiotic. If there is no response to the antibiotic, it is advised to perform a drug sensitivity test.

Whether urine discharge indicates infection

This situation usually occurs in lower urinary tract infections. Most of the causes are related to estrus, where unneutered male dogs often lick their genital organs during estrus, leading to urinary tract infections. It may also be due to long-term exposure to damp environments, where excess hair stimulates the urethra and causes infection. Consuming spicy and irritating foods may also cause urinary tract infections in dogs.

Treatment for urinary tract infections

It is recommended for owners to purchase anti-inflammatory and antibacterial drugs and diuretics from pet hospitals for their dogs' treatment. Meanwhile, the dog's urethra should be cleaned daily with a 2-3% boric acid solution. If there is a purulent discharge from the dog's urethra, the owner can clean the urethra twice a day. Also, pay attention to daily care, especially the hygiene of the kennel. Regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to prevent the condition from worsening.

Can dogs take human medications for urinary tract infections?

It is not recommended for owners to give human anti-inflammatory medications to their dogs. This is because owners may not accurately control the dosage of the medication, and dogs have different metabolic mechanisms for drugs than humans. Therefore, it is best not to give human medications to dogs. It is advised for owners to take their dogs to the hospital in a timely manner for inspection, determine the cause of the disease, and then proceed with treatment.