Bladder stones are small, calcified deposits from urine in the bladder. When they occur in dogs, they are more likely to affect female dogs and smaller breeds. Bladder stones in themselves are not necessarily a problem. However, large bladder stones can block urine from being expelled from the body and cause infections. They are also quite painful for your dog. Bladder stones must be either passed through the urinary system or surgically removed.
Instructions
Recognize the bladder stone symptoms in your dog. Is your dog suddenly urinating a lot more than usual? You may also notice that he flinches when he does urinate, a sign that he is experiencing pain during urination. His urine may also be pinkish or red from blood.
Take your dog to the vet for diagnosis. Explain the bladder stone symptoms that you observed. Your vet will do a physical exam, including feeling around your dog's bladder to see if there is pain or tenderness in the area. He will also do an ultrasound or X-ray on your dog to see if he can find any deposits in his bladder.
Treat your dog with the prescription medication that your vet gives you to dissolve the bladder stones. You must also increase your dog's water intake to speed along the process.
Consider changing your dog's diet. If your dog suffers from bladder stone frequently, your vet may suggest lower the levels of protein he eats. Lower levels of protein in your dog's diet can decrease the risk of bladder stones. Change in diet can take up to six months to see results, but this may go a long way in preventing future occurrences.
Monitor your dog and bring him back into the vet for a check after about two weeks. If the bladder stones are still present, your vet may suggest using more invasive methods of removal, such as surgery or catheterization.