Dr. Paola: Stopping Recurrent UTIs & Paw Licking in Dogs

Welcome to the insightful "Ask Dr. Paola" series, featuring expert veterinary guidance every Monday from Dr. Paola Cuevas, a highly experienced MVZ. This platform is crafted to assist both novice and veteran dog owners in comprehending and enhancing their pets' health and overall wellness. Dr. Paol

Welcome to the insightful "Ask Dr. Paola" series, featuring expert veterinary guidance every Monday from Dr. Paola Cuevas, a highly experienced MVZ. This platform is crafted to assist both novice and veteran dog owners in comprehending and enhancing their pets' health and overall wellness.

Dr. Paola delivers straightforward, reliable responses to the most critical inquiries you might have about your dog's care. Topics span from essential dietary recommendations and proactive health maintenance strategies to resolving everyday behavioral challenges. Her professional insights are designed to empower you with the knowledge needed to ensure your beloved canine remains vibrant, comfortable, and thriving. Tune in regularly for valuable advice on key subjects that directly impact you and your four-legged family member, enabling smarter choices and superior care for your dog.

Addressing Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections in Dogs

A concerned pet owner writes: "My Mastiff-Lab mix, Honey, continues to suffer from repeated urinary tract infections. We consulted a veterinarian who prescribed a canine antibiotic, Amoxicillin at 500mg, to be administered every 12 hours for a full 30-day course. Unfortunately, within just a week of completing the treatment, all the original symptoms reappeared. We're completely baffled! The vet visit cost us $179, yet it seems to have provided no lasting benefit." – Shirley

Hello Shirley,

Dealing with recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs) in a dog like Honey can be incredibly disheartening for any owner. When symptoms rebound so swiftly after completing a complete antibiotic regimen, it typically signals that the root cause of the issue remains undiscovered, rather than indicating the prescribed therapy was entirely ineffective. In larger breeds, particularly male dogs, such persistent infections are relatively rare and frequently point to an underlying factor that permits bacteria to linger and proliferate. Potential contributors include the formation of bladder stones, problems related to the prostate gland, structural irregularities in the urinary system, hormonal or endocrine disorders, or infections caused by bacterial strains that resist the specific antibiotic selected.

Prescribing antibiotics without first conducting a urine culture is somewhat akin to selecting a key at random without knowing the precise lock it needs to fit; occasionally it works by chance, but more often the targeted bacteria endure the treatment, leading to a swift recurrence of the infection.

The pivotal next action that can genuinely alter the trajectory of Honey's condition involves obtaining a sterile urine sample via a procedure known as cystocentesis. This is a straightforward, minimally invasive technique that most dogs tolerate very well. A veterinarian uses a sterile needle to draw urine directly from the bladder by piercing through the abdominal wall. This method ensures the sample is free from external contamination, allowing for comprehensive urinalysis and bacterial culture testing with antibiotic sensitivity analysis. Such testing enables the lab to pinpoint the exact type of bacteria involved, recommend the most effective antibiotic to eradicate it completely, and specify the optimal duration of therapy required.

In numerous instances of repeated UTIs, supplementary diagnostic imaging proves invaluable. Options like X-rays or ultrasound examinations can reveal hidden issues such as calculi in the bladder or enlargement of the prostate. Should Honey exhibit signs like increased frequency of urination, apparent straining during elimination, presence of blood in the urine, signs of discomfort or pain, elevated body temperature indicating fever, or a noticeable decrease in appetite, it is crucial to seek prompt veterinary reassessment. Urinary tract issues in male dogs warrant immediate attention due to their potential to escalate into more severe complications.

Wishing you the very best in resolving this for Honey!

Warm regards,
Dr. Paola

Managing Excessive Paw Licking in Senior Dogs

Another reader shares: "My older dog has developed a habit of excessively licking his paws. At times, it appears to stem from boredom, as he ceases the behavior when I gently redirect him. However, I've also come across information suggesting it could be linked to a yeast overgrowth issue. I'm uncertain about the true cause. Could you please offer any guidance or details on this? Thank you immensely." – Wendy & Purdy Boy

Dear Wendy,

In senior dogs, excessive licking of the paws can arise from various sources, and it's helpful to compare it to a human compulsively biting their nails—sometimes it's purely a behavioral habit triggered by stress or idleness, while other instances stem from an authentic physical irritation that demands attention and perpetuates the action. Although factors like boredom or anxiety may play a role, particularly evident when redirection halts the licking, the predominant medical explanations encompass seasonal or environmental allergies, irritations from contact with grass, pavement, or other surfaces, discomfort arising from arthritis in the joints, or secondary infections involving bacteria or yeast organisms.

Yeast overgrowth in the paws often manifests with telltale signs including localized redness, brownish discoloration of the fur from saliva staining, a distinctive musty smell emanating from the area, or noticeably thickened skin, especially in the interdigital spaces between toes. Importantly, yeast proliferation usually occurs as a secondary development following initial inflammation or moisture buildup, rather than being the originating culprit.

Given that Purdy Boy is in his senior years, prioritizing the exclusion of any medical underpinnings before classifying this as solely behavioral is especially vital. A thorough veterinary examination of the paws can detect indicators of allergic reactions or infections, such as inflammation marked by redness or swelling, unpleasant odors, or alterations in skin texture. Additionally, the vet can palpate and assess the joints for evidence of arthritic pain, reduced mobility, or stiffness that could be prompting the licking as a form of self-soothing.

While awaiting professional evaluation, implementing supportive home measures can make a significant difference. Encourage regular physical activity through daily walks to combat boredom and provide mental stimulation via puzzle toys or training sessions. After outdoor excursions, meticulously wipe Purdy Boy's paws with pet-safe wipes or a damp cloth to eliminate allergens, dirt, pollen, and excess moisture that might exacerbate irritation. When you observe the licking commencing, calmly redirect his focus to an alternative engaging pursuit, such as a chew toy or interactive play, to interrupt the cycle and prevent the behavior from solidifying into a entrenched routine.

Should the licking intensify over time, resulting in visible redness, swelling, foul odors, hair loss, or open sores, professional intervention becomes essential without delay. Chronic licking has the potential to transform minor discomfort into a vicious cycle of self-trauma, where saliva fosters further bacterial or yeast growth, rendering resolution far more challenging.

Best wishes for Purdy Boy's comfort,
Dr. Paola