Stones in a dog, what to do?

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Stones in a dog, what to do? - briefly
If your dog has stones or calculi, typically found in the bladder or kidneys, prompt veterinary care is essential. These can cause obstruction and severe pain; immediate treatment may include dietary changes, increased water intake, or even surgery if necessary.

Stones in a dog, what to do? - in detail
If your dog is experiencing discomfort or difficulty urinating, it may be due to the presence of stones in its bladder or urethra. These stones, also known as calculi or uroliths, can cause significant pain and potentially lead to a blockage if not addressed promptly. Here’s what you need to know and do:
Recognizing the Symptoms
The most common symptoms of bladder or urinary tract stones in dogs include:

Straining to urinate without producing much urine
Frequent attempts to urinate with little success
Blood in the urine (hematuria)
Lethargy and loss of appetite
Abdominal pain and sensitivity to touch
Cloudy or foul-smelling urine

Immediate Action
If you suspect your dog has bladder stones, it is crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. Delaying treatment can lead to serious complications, including a complete blockage of the urethra, which is a medical emergency.
Veterinary Diagnosis
Your veterinarian will likely perform a physical examination and may use diagnostic tools such as:

X-rays or ultrasound to visualize the stones
Urine analysis to check for blood, crystals, or infection
Blood tests to evaluate kidney function and overall health

Treatment Options
The treatment approach will depend on the size, type, and location of the stones, as well as your dog’s overall health. Common treatments include:

Dietary Management:

Certain diets can help dissolve specific types of stones, such as struvite or urate stones. Your veterinarian may recommend a prescription diet tailored to your dog’s needs.

Medical Dissolution:

For some stone types, medications can be prescribed to dissolve the stones over time. This method is typically used for small stones in the bladder.

Surgery:

In cases where stones are large or causing a blockage, surgery may be necessary. This procedure involves removing the stones through an incision in the bladder or urethra.

Cystoscopy and Lithotripsy:

Minimally invasive procedures such as cystoscopy (inserting a small camera into the urethra) can be used to locate and remove stones, especially in the lower urinary tract. In some cases, lithotripsy (breaking up the stones with shockwaves) may be performed.

Post-Treatment Care
After treatment, your veterinarian will provide specific instructions for care, including:

Administering any prescribed medications
Feeding a special diet as recommended
Monitoring urine output and overall health
Scheduling follow-up appointments to ensure the stones have resolved or dissolved completely

Prevention
To prevent future stone formation, your veterinarian may recommend:

A lifelong special diet designed for stone prevention
Regular check-ups and urinalyses
Increasing water intake to help flush the urinary tract

Conclusion
Bladder or urinary tract stones in dogs are a serious condition that requires prompt veterinary attention. By recognizing the symptoms early and working closely with your veterinarian, you can ensure your dog receives the appropriate treatment and prevent future complications.