Urinary relief for your dog — expert help just a call away

Urinary problems in dogs can range from minor infections to more serious conditions. Understanding these issues can help you recognize when your dog needs veterinary attention. Here are the most common urinary issues dogs experience: 1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) • Caused by bacteria entering and multiplying in the urinary tract • More common in female dogs due to their shorter urethra • Can affect dogs of any age, but more common in older dogs • May recur in dogs with underlying health issues 2. Bladder Stones (Uroliths) • Hard mineral formations that develop in the bladder • Common types include struvite, calcium oxalate, and urate stones • Can vary in size from sand-like particles to larger stones • May cause blockages, especially in male dogs 3. Urinary Incontinence • Involuntary leakage of urine, often while sleeping • More common in spayed female dogs due to hormonal changes • Can affect older dogs of both sexes • Sometimes related to weak sphincter muscles or neurological issues 4. Kidney Disease • Acute kidney injury: Sudden damage to the kidneys • Chronic kidney disease: Progressive loss of kidney function over time • More common in older dogs • Can be caused by infections, toxins, or age-related degeneration 5. Prostate Issues (in male dogs) • Enlarged prostate can press on the urethra, affecting urination • More common in intact (non-neutered) males • Typically affects middle-aged to older dogs 6. Congenital Abnormalities • Ectopic ureters: Ureter tubes that don't connect properly to the bladder • More common in certain breeds like Siberian Huskies and Labradors • Usually present from birth and may cause lifelong issues 7. Urethral Obstruction • Blockage preventing normal urine flow • More common in male dogs due to their longer, narrower urethra • A true emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention Understanding these conditions can help you identify problems early and seek appropriate treatment for your dog.

Recognizing the signs of urinary problems in your dog can help you seek veterinary care before conditions become serious. Look for these common indicators: • Increased frequency of urination • Straining or crying when urinating • Small amounts of urine passed frequently • Blood in the urine (pink, red, or brown-tinged urine) • Strong-smelling urine • Accidents in the house (in previously house-trained dogs) • Excessive licking of the genital area • Dribbling urine or incontinence • Increased thirst • Lethargy or decreased activity • Loss of appetite • Vomiting (in cases of kidney issues or severe infections) • Fever • Pain when the lower abdomen is touched • Change in urine stream (weaker, interrupted) • Cloudy or thick urine • Inability to urinate despite straining (EMERGENCY - seek immediate care) Male dogs with urinary blockages may adopt a hunched posture and make repeated, unsuccessful attempts to urinate. This is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary attention. Some dogs, especially cats, may also urinate outside the litter box or in unusual places when experiencing urinary discomfort. Early detection of these signs can lead to faster treatment and better outcomes for your dog's urinary health.

While veterinary care is essential for treating urinary problems, there are several things you can do at home to support your dog's urinary health: 1. Hydration • Ensure your dog always has access to fresh, clean water • Consider adding water to dry food to increase moisture intake • Use pet water fountains to encourage drinking • Monitor water intake (increased or decreased drinking can indicate problems) 2. Dietary Management • Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for your dog's age and health needs • For dogs prone to stones, feed prescription diets recommended by your veterinarian • Avoid high-salt foods that can increase thirst and urination • Consider cranberry supplements for UTI-prone dogs (with veterinary approval) 3. Bathroom Access • Provide frequent opportunities for your dog to urinate • Maintain a consistent schedule for bathroom breaks • For incontinent dogs, consider doggy diapers or belly bands • Use waterproof bed covers to protect bedding 4. Monitoring • Keep track of your dog's urination habits (frequency, volume, color) • Note any changes in behavior or drinking habits • Watch for signs of discomfort during urination • If using puppy pads, check for blood or unusual color in the urine 5. Hygiene • Keep the genital area clean, especially for dogs with incontinence • Regularly wash bedding and areas where accidents occur • For long-haired dogs, consider trimming fur around the urinary opening • Use pet-safe, unscented wipes for cleaning between baths 6. Stress Reduction • Minimize stress, which can contribute to some urinary issues • Maintain a consistent routine • Provide adequate exercise and mental stimulation • Create a calm environment, especially during recovery 7. Medication Management • Administer all prescribed medications as directed • Complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve • Keep track of when medications need to be refilled • Monitor for side effects and report them to your veterinarian Remember that home care should complement, not replace, veterinary treatment for urinary issues. Always follow your veterinarian's specific recommendations for your dog's condition.

At Telavets, we provide comprehensive virtual care for dogs experiencing urinary problems. Here's how our services can help manage your dog's urinary health: 1. Virtual Consultations • Convenient video appointments with licensed veterinarians • Detailed discussion of your dog's symptoms and medical history • Visual assessment of your dog's condition and behavior • Guidance on whether immediate in-person care is needed 2. Diagnostic Assistance • Help interpreting any existing test results • Recommendations for appropriate diagnostic tests • Guidance on collecting urine samples at home • Coordination with local labs for testing if needed 3. Treatment Plans • Prescription medications for infections, inflammation, or incontinence • Dietary recommendations to support urinary health • Supplement suggestions for ongoing urinary support • Lifestyle modifications to reduce symptoms 4. Medication Delivery • Antibiotics for treating UTIs • Anti-inflammatory medications for comfort • Incontinence medications • Urinary health supplements • All delivered directly to your door, usually next-day 5. Monitoring and Follow-up • Regular check-ins to assess treatment effectiveness • Adjustments to treatment plans as needed • Long-term management strategies for chronic conditions • Preventive care recommendations 6. Emergency Triage • Immediate guidance if your dog develops serious symptoms • Help determining when emergency in-person care is needed • Coordination with emergency clinics when necessary 7. Education and Support • Information about your dog's specific urinary condition • Training on administering medications • Guidance on home care techniques • Support for managing incontinent dogs Our virtual approach allows us to provide continuous care and monitoring without the stress of repeated clinic visits, which is especially beneficial for dogs with chronic urinary conditions.

When your dog is experiencing urinary issues, Telavets offers several advantages over traditional veterinary care: • Convenience: Get expert veterinary advice without loading your uncomfortable dog into the car or sitting in waiting rooms. • Reduced Stress: Many dogs with urinary issues experience anxiety at vet clinics, which can make diagnosis more difficult and even worsen symptoms. Our virtual approach keeps your dog comfortable at home. • Quick Access: Don't wait days for an appointment when your dog is showing signs of discomfort. Connect with a licensed veterinarian quickly to address urinary issues. • Cost-Effective Care: Our flat-rate consultations are often more affordable than in-person visits, especially for ongoing management of chronic conditions. • Consistent Monitoring: For dogs with recurring UTIs or chronic issues, we can provide regular check-ins without the hassle of repeated clinic visits. • Comprehensive Follow-up: Unlimited follow-up consultations mean we can adjust treatment plans as your dog's condition changes. • Medication Delivery: No need to make a separate trip to the pharmacy – get prescriptions delivered directly to your door. • Specialist Access: Our network includes veterinarians with special interest and expertise in urinary health. • Preventive Focus: We don't just treat current issues but also provide guidance on preventing future urinary problems. • Home Management Support: Get practical advice for managing incontinence and other chronic conditions at home. • Educational Approach: We help you understand your dog's condition and recognize early warning signs of complications. • Holistic Perspective: We consider all aspects of your dog's health, including diet, environment, and other factors that may affect urinary function. At Telavets, we're committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for your dog's urinary health needs, with the convenience and comfort that both you and your pet deserve.