Vet Hansel answers your questions about pet care in this weekly advice column, created in partnership with the Bahrain Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BSPCA). It will also be highlighting each week some of the animals in the BSPCA sanctuary, in the hope of finding each of them a loving home.
Question: I noticed that Ruther, my dog, seems to be in pain when urinating and is only passing small amounts. Can you tell me what the problem is?
Answer: These symptoms could be due to bladder/urinary stones but it is very important to consult your veterinarian for exact diagnosis.
Stones are caused by mineral salts producing crystals in the urine; these crystals then join together to form stones (calculi or uroliths).
Urolithiasis is a general term referring to stones located anywhere within the urinary tract and urethral obstruction is common in male dogs.
Factors that influence the development of stones include genetic predisposition, the concentration of the stone constituents in the urine, urine pH, and bacterial infections.
Dogs with bladder stones may have blood in their urine and frequently pass small quantities of urine.
Some dogs with bladder stones may show no symptoms and the stones are discovered while palpating the abdomen during a routine physical exam.
In other cases, the diagnosis of bladder stones in dogs is made with abdominal x-rays. Based on the composition of the stone, size, and location, the stone may be surgically removed or a special diet may be used to dissolve the stone.
Controlling urinary tract infections is especially important in preventing recurrence of certain stones.
Make sure that your dog always has access to fresh drinking water to keep his urine diluted and if he doesn’t like drinking a lot of water, add some to his food. Ensure your dog has access to an area where he can urinate regularly as bacteria can build up when urine is held in for long periods which can lead to kidney stones.
Take care with his diet, as food that is high in protein will increase the amount of calcium and uric acids in your dog’s urine, your vet can advise you on a diet that will meet his requirements.
Make sure that your dog has ample opportunities for exercise on a daily basis as exercise will flush toxins from your dog’s blood stream and encourage your dog to drink larger amounts of water.
Always make sure that your dog has regular check-ups at the vet.
- Dr Hansel Geo is a veterinary consultant and surgeon for the BSPCA and Charis Vets. Please send questions to bspca@batelco.com.bh.
BSPCA’S DOG OF THE WEEK IS TYRION
Breed: Mixed breed
Sex: Male
Age: Two years
Neutered: Yes
Tyrion is a cheerful little one with an adorable character. He is active and jumps at the sight of any guest. He is fun to be with, carefree and with his innocent eyes lovingly staring at you, one cannot resist cuddling him on the spot. Tyrion is neutered, tick-treated and fully vaccinated.
BSPCA’S CAT OF THE WEEK IS JUDY
Breed: Bengal Mix
Sex: Female
Age: One year
Neutered: Yes
Judy is an adorable and expres
sive little cat. She has soft silky fur that entices visitors to touch and pet her constantly. She oozes affection and having her around would certainly bring great joy to your family. Judy is neutered and fully vaccinated.
- If you are interested in adopting Tyrion, Judy or any of the shelter’s cats, kittens, dogs and puppies, visit the Animal Welfare Centre in Askar. Directions can be found at www.bspca.org.