What Do Veterinarians Do When a Dog Has Blood in Its Urine?
Blood in a dog’s urine, known as hematuria, can be an alarming symptom for pet owners. This condition can range from benign to life-threatening causes, and understanding the veterinary process is essential for prompt care and peace of mind.
How Blood in Urine Appears
Hematuria may be visible or microscopic. The urine can appear red, brown, pink, or orange, and may have an unusual or foul odor. Sometimes, blood is only detectable via diagnostic tests and not visible to the naked eye.
Common Reasons for Blood in Dog Urine
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Often accompanied by frequent or painful urination, and cloudy or smelly urine. UTIs are treated with antibiotics.
- Bladder or Kidney Stones: May irritate the tract and require special diets or surgical intervention.
- Trauma: Injuries from accidents can damage urinary organs and necessitate immediate care.
- Cancer: Especially in older dogs, bladder or kidney cancers can produce hematuria and require advanced treatment.
- Toxins: Ingestion of poisons like rat poison may cause internal bleeding, including in the urinary tract.
- Clotting Disorders: Conditions that prevent proper blood clotting can lead to various internal bleeding symptoms, including hematuria.
- Prostate Problems: In males, enlarged or infected prostates may lead to blood in the urine.
- Hormonal Changes: Unspayed females in heat may experience temporary hematuria.
Associated Symptoms
Other concerning signs to look for include:
- Frequent urination or straining
- Whimpering during urination
- Lethargy or loss of appetite
- Visible discomfort or pain
- Redness, swelling, or licking around genital areas
Veterinary Diagnosis Process
Vets perform several evaluations to identify the cause:
- Physical Exam: Checks for pain, hydration, and physical abnormalities.
- Urinalysis: Identifies signs of infection, crystals, or red blood cells.
- Blood Tests: Assess internal organ function and immune response.
- Imaging: Ultrasound or X-rays help locate stones, tumors, or blockages.
- Cultures: Determine the exact bacteria for targeted antibiotic use.
Treatment Options
Once the underlying issue is identified, treatment varies:
- Antibiotics: Given for bacterial infections.
- Dietary Management: Special food may help dissolve urinary stones.
- Surgery: In some cases, stones or tumors need removal.
- Emergency Care: Blockages or toxin ingestion require immediate intervention and supportive therapy.
- Long-Term Management: Chronic conditions, such as cancer, may be managed with medications or palliative care.
When Is It an Emergency?
Immediate veterinary attention is crucial if your dog:
- Is unable to urinate or produces very little urine
- Displays severe pain or abdominal swelling
- Vomits or collapses
- Has very dark or brown-colored urine
These may be signs of a life-threatening urinary blockage.
Preventative Measures
While not all causes are preventable, you can reduce risk by:
- Providing continuous access to fresh water
- Feeding a high-quality and balanced diet
- Maintaining cleanliness around the genital area
- Scheduling regular vet checkups and wellness exams
- Monitoring for any urination changes
Collecting a Sample for Your Vet
If your dog is urinating blood, you might be asked to collect a urine sample. Use a clean container and refrigerate it if you can’t bring it to the clinic immediately. Share detailed observations about behavior, symptoms, and any recent changes in diet or routine.
Conclusion
Hematuria in dogs is a symptom that shouldn’t be ignored. Early detection and veterinary evaluation significantly improve the chances of a successful outcome. Even if your dog appears fine, blood in urine always warrants professional assessment within 24 hours.
