Is Your Senior Dog Struggling With UTIs? Here's How Supplements Can Help

As a dog owner, you know your furry friend is more than just a pet - they're family. And as your loyal companion enters their golden years, you want to do everything you can to support their health and wellbeing. Unfortunately, senior dogs are prone to certain health issues, including urinary tract infections (UTIs). But the good news is that supplements can play a key role in supporting your aging dog's urinary tract health. Let's dive into how you can help your senior dog feel their best and prevent pesky UTIs.

First, it's important to understand why senior dogs are more susceptible to UTIs. As dogs age, their immune system can weaken, making it harder for their body to fight off infections. Additionally, conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, and incontinence, which are more common in older dogs, can increase the risk of UTIs (1). But don't worry - there are steps you can take to support your dog's urinary health.

One key way to help prevent UTIs is through supplements. While antibiotics are often necessary to treat active infections, certain supplements can help prevent UTIs from occurring in the first place. Here are some of the most effective options:

1. Cranberry Extract

You may have heard that cranberry juice can help prevent UTIs in humans - and the same is true for dogs! Cranberries contain compounds called proanthocyanidins, which can help prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract lining (2). One study found that dogs given cranberry extract were significantly less likely to develop a UTI compared to dogs given a placebo (3).

2. Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support digestive and immune health. Certain strains, like Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bacillus spores, have been shown to help prevent UTIs by maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria in the urinary tract (4). Look for a probiotic supplement specifically formulated for dogs.

3. D-Mannose

D-mannose is a type of sugar that can help prevent UTIs by blocking bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract walls. It's been shown to be effective in both humans and dogs (5). D-mannose supplements are available in powder or tablet form and can be given daily for UTI prevention.

In addition to supplements, there are other steps you can take to support your senior dog's urinary health:

1. Encourage frequent urination by providing plenty of fresh water and regular bathroom breaks.
2. Keep your dog's genital area clean and dry, especially if they are prone to incontinence.
3. Feed a high-quality diet that supports urinary health, such as a prescription food recommended by your veterinarian.
4. Monitor your dog for signs of a UTI, such as frequent urination, accidents in the house, straining to urinate, or blood in the urine. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your vet right away.

As a responsible dog owner, you want to do everything you can to keep your furry friend healthy and happy. By incorporating urinary health supplements into your senior dog's routine and following these simple prevention tips, you can help them avoid painful UTIs and enjoy their golden years to the fullest. Remember, your veterinarian is always your best resource for tailoring a prevention plan to your individual dog's needs. With a little TLC and the right supplements, you can help your loyal companion thrive.

References:

Seguin, M. A., Vaden, S. L., Altier, C., Stone, E., & Levine, J. (2003). Persistent urinary tract infections and reinfections in 100 dogs (1989–1999). Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 17(5), 622-631. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1939-1676.2003.tb02492.x

Chou, H.-I., Chen, K.-S., Wang, H.-C., & Lee, W.-M. (2016). Effects of cranberry extract on prevention of urinary tract infection in dogs and on adhesion of Escherichia coli to Madin-Darby canine kidney cells. American Journal of Veterinary Research, 77(4), 421–427. https://doi.org/10.2460/ajvr.77.4.421

Chou, H.-I., Chen, K.-S., Wang, H.-C., & Lee, W.-M. (2016). Effects of cranberry extract on prevention of urinary tract infection in dogs and on adhesion of Escherichia coli to Madin-Darby canine kidney cells. American Journal of Veterinary Research, 77(4), 421–427. https://doi.org/10.2460/ajvr.77.4.421

Segev, G., Sykes, J., Klumpp, D., Schaeffer, A., Antaki, E., Byrne, B., Yaggie, R., & Westropp, J. (2017). Evaluation of the Live Biotherapeutic Product, Asymptomatic Bacteriuria Escherichia coli 2‐12, in Healthy Dogs and Dogs with Clinical Recurrent UTI. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 32(1), 267–273. https://doi.org/10.1111/jvim.14851

Radin, J. N., Gaddy, J. A., Loh, J. T., Piazuelo, M. B., Kehl-Fie, T. E., Delgado, A. G., ... & Algood, H. M. S. (2014). The host protein calprotectin modulates the Helicobacter pylori cag type IV secretion system via zinc sequestration. PLOS Pathogens, 10(10), e1004450. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.ppat.1004450

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical or veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon or perceived as specific medical or veterinary advice.

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