Client: Kara Brook
Copyright 2008 Kara Brook
Bladder Stone Prevention in Dogs
There are many types of bladder stones that can affect your dog. The most common are:
* Calcium
* Oxalate
* Struvite
* Urate
Different medical circumstances contribute to each of these types of canine bladder stones. Unfortunately, some breeds are genetically predisposed to developing certain types of stones in the bladder.
How Canine Bladder Stones Form
All types of bladder stones develop as a result of excess minerals being present in the urine. They begin as crystals that are suspended in the urine. Over time, the concentration of crystals increases and they fall and create "sand" at the bottom of the bladder. Eventually this sand becomes complete bladder stones.
Treating Canine Bladder Stones
Treatment of dog bladder stones depends largely on the type of stone that is present. In most cases, your veterinarian recommends surgery, prescriptions medication and some form of diet therapy to help your dog. Unfortunately, dogs that have developed bladder stones tend to repeat the process and have to be monitored for future bladder stone development. Prevention is the best treatment available to you and your beloved pet.
Preventing Bladder Stones
Water is the number one step in preventing dog bladder stones. The more water your dog drinks, the more diluted the urine becomes. This means there is less of a concentration of the minerals that form into crystals and stones. Encourage consumption of large amounts of water by placing extra bowls of fresh, cool water all over the house. You may also consider a water fountain designed for continuous water flow that is made for pets. Diets that consist of canned food or adding water to your dog's dry food will supply extra liquid in their diet as well.
Frequent Urination
Another proven method of aiding in the prevention of dog bladder stones is encouraging frequent urination. The more your dog urinates, the quicker crystals and minerals are removed from the bladder. This decreases the chances of developing bladder stones.
Unfortunately, dogs that are trained to hold their urine until their owner returns from work are prime candidates for canine bladder stones. Get someone to walk your dog in the middle of the day. Another option is a doggie door. This allows your dog to come in and out when the need arises and will help them maintain a healthy, stone-free bladder.
Proper Diet
It is important for many reasons to be sure you are maintaining a proper dciet for your dog. High levels of the following minerals and elements can cause quicker development of certain canine bladder stones:
* Magnesium
* Phosphorus
* Calcium
* Protein
Treatment of Canine Bladder Infections
If there is bacteria present in the bladder, it may cause bladder stones to develop faster than they normally would. If you observe any signs that your pet may be having difficulty urinating, get to a vet as soon as possible. The longer you wait to have your pet's infection treated, the more likely it is that bladder stones will develop. Prevention is as important in the care and health of your pet as it is in your own physical health.
Proper diet, exercise and eating habits are very important in maintaining the health and welfare of your pet. Canine bladder stones are just as painful and debilitating in your dog as they would be if you had them yourself. Often, our pets do not show the same symptoms as people do when they aren't feeling well. Many people believe that they know when their pet is not feeling well and that is fantastic. It means they are truly in tune with their companion's needs.
Other people, unfortunately tend to forget that animals have feelings too. Because of their inability to communicate through speech, a pet in pain is often overlooked by its owner. In these cases, the dog, or other pet, suffers needlessly a lot longer than they should. It is your responsibility as the owner of your pet to be sure your animal is healthy and well cared for. Pay attention and observe them carefully. Chances are that if there is a problem developing, you will see some sort of sign, even if it is a very slight one.