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Is Pyridium Given to Dogs With a Urinary Tract Infection?

Pyridium is the brand name for the drug Phenazopyridine. It is used to relieve the pain and burning of urinary tract infections, along with the frequent urination. Pyridium does not cure urinary tract infections but helps the sufferer get through one with less discomfort. Among vets, arguable is whether pyridium should be given to dogs to lessen their symptoms, but some doctors do prescribe it.

  1. Urinary Tract Infection

    • If your dog ingests contaminated food or water, bacteria can build up in her urinary tract. The bacteria spreads in the bladder, kidneys, uterus, urethra and prostate. Female dogs are more prone to urinary tract infections because their urethra is shorter, and bacteria can get to the bladder area more easily.

    Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection

    • Excessive water drinking, frequent urination, yelping or crying while urinating, trying to urinate but producing very little urine and incontinence are all signs of a lower urinary tract infection. If the urine has a foul odor or blood in it, this is another indicator of an infection. An upper urinary tract infection is more difficult to diagnose yourself, but the dog will usually lose weight, vomit or stop eating. If you suspect your dog has a urinary tract infection, you will need to get a sample of his urine and take it to your vet.

    Pyridium as Treatment

    • Because pyridium does not cure the urinary tract infection, whether your vet will prescribe it is arguable. An infection will most likely be cured with a course of antibiotics, but some vets will prescribe pyridium for its anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing qualities. If your dog is in less pain, she will urinate more comfortably, flushing the bacteria from her system.

    Other Concerns

    • Pyridium has caused allergic reactions, such as vomiting, confusion, weakness, decrease or loss of urination, increased thirst and may cause liver and kidney problems. These reactions can occur in dogs as well as humans and are considerations your vet will take into account before prescribing the drug to your dog. Do not administer the Pyridium to your dog without the advice of your veterinarian.

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