Canine Bladder Stones Montevallo AL

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Dogs, like humans, can suffer from bladder stones (otherwise known as canine urolithiasis, cystitis, urethritis, or kidney stones). This condition, in which excessive amounts of "stones" or crystals gather in the urinary tract, causes urinary tract irritation and pain during urination. Most often the stones are formed in a dog's bladder, but they can form in the kidney or the urethra as well. Once formed, they then aggravate the urinary tract lining and can lead to blood in the urine and pain. In some instances the stones will actually block the stream of urine, thus making urination painful and even impossible.

1. Types of stones. Struvite bladder stones form when there is some sort of infection in the urinary tract -- for instance, a Staph infection or a Proteus infection. Most common in female dogs and otherwise rare, the stones are composed of Magnesium, Ammonium, and Phosphate.
   
   Calcium Oxalate bladder stones are rare in female dogs and have been linked to a hereditary condition with dogs that have defective nephrocalcin (the substance that normally breaks down calcium deposits).
   
   Uric Acid stones are the third type of bladder stone, formed almost exclusively by the Dalmatian breed because Dalmatians' livers cannot absorb uric acid.
2. Symptoms. Since dogs cannot speak, as an owner, you need to be aware of any changes in behavior, appetite and temperament. Frequent urination can be a sign of a bladder stone. Blood in your dog's urine, or "dribbling urination" can be telltale signs of a partially blocked or impaired urethra. If your dog shows signs of strain, depression, vomiting or weakness, take him to the vet immediately. Even if bladder stones are not responsible, the behavior may signal a serious problem....

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Author: Grace Bloodwell