heat/urination

Question
Shelly - My dog Sprout is having her first period.  She has been spotting for about a week, during this time she has had several accidents in the house.  I've also noticed that she seems to be not knowingly dribbling urine. Tonight when I brought her outside she whimpered while she was urinating.  I know that more frequent urination is common but should I be concerned?

Answer
Dear Kim,

Thank you for writing to me about your sweet dog Sprout.  From your description it sounds as if Sprout may have a bladder infection.  Please bring her to the vet as soon as possible.  In the meantime, give her some cranberry from the health food store. It comes in capsules.  I would suggest giving this 3x a day.  

Please also consider spaying your dog.  Doing this will prevent certain deadly cancer and as careful as you might be, there is always the chance for an unwanted pregnancy.  For every puppy born there is one less home for a precious dog waiting on death row.

Best Regards,
Shelley Davis