URINATING CONTROL

Question
MY PUG/PIKANEESE JUST STARTED URINATION WHILE HE IS SLEEPING. WHEN HE GET UP FROM A SPOT I NOTICE A WET SPOT. THIS JUST STARTED. WHAT CAN I DO? HE IS A HOUSE DOG.

Answer
Hi Liz,

There are several important causes of incontinence and most of these are ruled in or out with a urinalysis and urine culture. These are both simple tests your veterinarian can preform.

If your dog has been drinking excessive amounts of water, that's something you should mention to your vet, since it may be a sign of Diabetes Mellitus, and tests should be run to rule that out.

The urinalysis reveals cell types and biochemical elements in the patent's urine while the culture isolates and bacteria growing in the urine. The bacterial species grown are identified and tested for their sensitivity towards different antibiotics, the end result being confirmation of the presence of infection and a list of appropriate antibiotics.

Most cases of urinary incontinence are due to:

- Infection in the urinary tract (usually bladder infection)

- Excessive consumption of water

- Weak bladder sphincter (especially common in female dogs, but males can get it too)

- Spinal cord disease

Some male dogs develop urinary incontinence following neutering. Even though the testicles were removed, small amounts of testosterone continue to be produced by the dog's adrenal glands. The amount of testosterone produced is usually enough to maintain bladder sphincter tone, but in some cases, there isn't enough hormone (testosterone)  to maintain proper bladder sphincter tone, and medication is required.

The medication available to assist in urinary incontinent dogs, includes hormonal replacement, or the use of direct bladder sphincter stimulants.

Until you can get an appointment to see your vet, you might want to put old towels under your dog when he's sleeping. It would not be a good idea to withhold water until the doctor has ruled out the possibility of Diabetes, since that could cause serious side effects.

I hope that helps.

Best of luck,
Patti