Bladder infection

Question
We have a 13 week old femal golden retriever puppy who has had A LOT of health issues over the last 6 weeks of her little life.  She has been on antibiotic called Albone for coxidia for 6 weeks because we couldn't get rid of it.  Now she has a SEVER bladder infection, and I wanted to know if her stomach being distended is a sign of a bladder infection.  She has been extremely lithargic and quite for the last 6 weeks.  She doesn't play at all and she does not eat well.  I am extremely worried that she may have bladder stone is this possible in a small puppy.  She weighs aproximately 6-7 pounds.  She was only 3.5 punds when we got her.  She is very small.  Any advice or suggestions would be very welcome.  Thanks so much!

Answer
Hi Shelley :-)

Oh dear the poor little thing. It does sound like the swollen abdomen is caused by her bladder infection. Has the Vet confirmed the bladder infection? Female Dogs are quite prone to bladder infections compared to male Dogs, where it is not that common for them to contract a UTI.

It is possible for puppies to have Gull Stones and Bladder Stones. These stones usually pass on their own unless they are quite large. But tests will need to be performed ....usually a abdomen Xray, to see if there is any Stones present there.

I would keep giving your Dog plenty of Fluids to eat and also contact the breeder you purchased her from and find out all the medical history of her Dogs. There may be something there that your puppy has picked up or even a inherited illness passed down through her genetics. Also ask the breeder if there was any illness in the Dogs prior to and after you purchased your puppy.

Give your puppy plenty of fluids to drink and also give her something light to eat such as Scrambled Egg or Boiled Rice with grilled Meat mixed up in it. This will give her all of her vitamins and minerals and wont be too harsh on her abdomen.

Keep a eye on her and if you notice anything that worries you, contact your Vet straight away. Also, make a appointment at your Vet, and take a urine sample with you to be tested for numerous things.

Take care and all the best and please leave me a comment.

Trisha x