Antibiotics are generally used for UTI treatment in dogs but there are other natural ways of killing the bacteria that cause urinary tract infections without resorting to the use of antibiotics.
Urinary Tract Infections in Dogs
Urinary tract infections in dogs can occur anywhere in the urinary tract including the urinary bladder, the kidneys and the urethra, although they are most common in the urethra. They are caused by the E. coli bacteria and can be hazardous to the health of your pet. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the kidneys and can even prove fatal.
Symptoms of Canine Urinary Tract Infection
- Incontinence
- Straining to urinate
- Frequent urination
- Cloudy urine
- Fever
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Blood in the urine
Holistic Approach to Treating Canine UTI
It’s often seen that high doses of antibiotics aggravate the problem rather than rid the dog of the urinary tract infection. Many vets use herbs and natural remedies such as homeopathic remedies to fight UTI.
Garlic
Garlic is a natural antibiotic and helps support the immune system as well. It can be very easily incorporated into the dog’s food and helps prevent and treat mild forms of the infection. It’s best to use raw uncooked garlic as advised by the vet as too much of it can prove harmful to your pet.
Echinacea
This herb also known as purple coneflower helps remove residual products of the infection and boosts the immune system. Capsules of Echinacea can be added to your pet’s wet food. You should discuss the benefits of using Echinacea with your vet before treating your pet and watch out for any allergic reactions to the herb.
Rosehip
Rosehip contains high amounts of iron and Vitamin C and helps your pet fight the infection.
Yarrow
Yarrow is used to fight canine urinary tract infections as it boosts the immune system and acts as a tonic for the blood and nervous system.
Buchu
Buchu helps cleanse your pet’s blood of impurities and prevents the formation of bladder stones. The leaves are rich in essential oils and are used in the treatment of ailments of the gastrointestinal and urinary tracts.
Uva Ursi and Alfalfa
Alfalfa reduces the acidity in the urine and treats irritations of the mucosal lining of the stomach. Leaves of the uva ursi are also used in the treatment of cystitis and urolithiasis.
Homeopathic Remedies
Homeopathic remedies help relieve bladder discomfort and control urinary incontinence. Cantharis or Spanish fly is used to treat bladder infections or cystitis and is also effective in relieving the pain that’s experienced while urinating. Staphysagris or palmated larkspur also soothes cystitis and treats urine retention issues.
Home Care
You should ensure that your pet drinks plenty of water to avoid dehydration. He should also be allowed to go out to relieve himself frequently so that there is no build up of pressure in the bladder. Your dog shouldn’t be exposed to toxins and chemicals such as cigarette smoke, pesticides or insecticides and his diet should consist of raw and unprocessed food that’s free of preservatives. Wet food is preferable to dry food and the food should contain little or no sugar.
In order to prevent urinary tract infections, you should take care of your pet and his diet , ensure he has regular exercise and minimize the stress he is exposed to. A lot of love and a little care will help you safeguard your pet’s health.