It happens all too often. Older dogs begin having "accidents" in the house. Wet spots might appear on the floor and rugs where they've been lying. Letting them out more frequently, crating, scolding or punishing doesn't do any good, because they can't help it. Just like people, canines may experience urinary incontinence as part of the aging process. Fortunately, a drug can cure or greatly alleviate this condition.
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Phenylpropanolamine
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Phenylpropanolamine, or PPA, is marketed under the name Prion for veterinary use. In 1999, the FDA banned the drug for human use as a decongestant, but it is still the drug of choice for urinary incontinence in canines. Prion is a non-hormonal medication, so it may be used in both male and female dogs. Part of a drug class known as alpha agonists, it is available in liquid or tablet form. Tablets come in strengths of 25, 50 and 75 mg. PPA is contraindicated in diabetic dogs, or those suffering from heart disease or hyperthyroidism. Side effects include change in appetite, rapid heartbeat and restlessness.
Incontinence in Male Dogs
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Unlike female dogs, neutered and intact dogs suffer from urinary incontinence at the same rate. It is generally the result of age, and tends to start in the male dog at about 10 years old. PPA is usually very effective in male dogs with urinary incontinence. If it does not work, consult the vet for further testing, as the incontinence could be caused by other factors, such as urinary tract infections, stones in the bladder or a misplaced urethra.
Incontinence in Female Dogs
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According to a September 2006 article in the Whole Dog Journal, approximately one-fifth of spayed female dogs will eventually develop symptoms of urinary incontinence. It is especially common in dogs spayed after their first heat. Low levels of estrogen in the spayed female may lead to weakening of the sphincter muscle, which controls urination. Symptoms range from occasional drops of urine to complete bladder emptying, often while the dog is sleeping. PPA helps to tighten the sphincter muscle., and the effect is usually immediate shortly after receiving the drug. It may be given regularly, usually every eight to 12 hours, or as needed for dogs with occasional bouts of incontinence.
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