Puppy urinary tract infections are a common problem and one which is easy to miss until it has become serious, so owners need to remain vigilant and do whatever they can to maintain their pet’s health. One of the best ways for staying ahead of urinary tract problems is through the use of natural remedies and following a healthy daily regimen.

 

While the symptoms of urinary tract infection puppy owners should heed are the same as those in adult dogs, they can be harder to spot in puppies. Lethargy, lack of appetite and pain and tenderness in the abdomen are common symptoms but generally the most prominent symptom is frequent urination. Because puppies are still trying to control their bladders, it can be hard to distinguish regular “accidents” from frequent urination caused by uti.

 

If your puppy’s excess urination is accompanied by any of the other uti symptoms, a veterinary exam is recommended. Your vet will be able to determine if the symptoms are being caused by anything more serious and will suggest a course of treatment. In most cases of puppy urinary tract infections, this will involve a course of antibiotics but this is troubling in itself as antibiotics can actually damage a puppy’s developing immune system.

 

There are many possible causes of urinary tract infection puppy owners should be aware of. Female dogs are at more risk because of their shortened urethra, which allows transfer of bacteria that much quicker. And as they grow and experience rapid hormone changes, puppies’ ph levels can shift, making them more prone to uti’s.

 

Maintaining good health for your puppy begins with the right diet. Good quality canned food is recommended, but dry can also be used as long as you avoid foods that are mostly grain. Making sure there is some protein included will help to avoid puppy urinary tract infections by strengthening growing bodies and particularly the immune system.

 

Insuring that your puppy gets plenty of clean water is also important as proper hydration leads to regular urination. Another important tool in fighting urinary tract infection puppy owners should be aware of is the use of homeopathic treatments. Made from a special blend of herbs and other natural, plant based ingredients, these products can help to boost the immune system and balance out bacteria levels in the urinary tract.

 

Herbs such as Arctostaphylos uva ursi, Berberis vulgaris, and Cantharis can provide a safe, gentle alternative to harsh antibiotics, without the potentially harmful side effects. Used as part of a regular daily health routine, these natural products can go a long way to help your puppy grow and develop normally and avoid painful and possibly even life threatening puppy urinary tract infections.

 

Urinary tract infections are a fact of life for dog owners, but they can be avoided if you just take the right steps early on. So make sure you give your puppy the right foods and plenty of exercise and consider safe, gentle homeopathic remedies to treat any problems which do occur. With a little bit of help from Mother Nature, you can get your puppy off to a healthy start!