Bladder Stone in Dogs - Treating Bladder Stones in Dogs Treating bladder stones in dogs is a story that can go untold or one that has a hair raising ending, especially in the case of blockage or surgery. The players are rock hard composites of minerals (calcium, ammonium, phosphate, magnesium, etc) that can range in size from tiny to very large (three inches in diameter). There are three basic types and treatment in part will be based on what type of stone is causing the problem. The three types are: Struvite: Struvite bladder stones contain little or no calcium but instead are a composite of magnesium, phosphate, and ammonium. They generally form only when infection causing bacteria such as staphylococcus has made its way into the urinary tract. This type of stone is most common in female dogs due to their susceptibility to urinary bacterial infection. Calcium oxalate: Calcium oxalate stones contain as much as 85% calcium salts and magnesium and have been associated with a hereditary condition (nephrocalcin) which inhibits the dog’s ability to break down and eliminate calcium. This type of stone is most often seen in male dogs. Uric acid: Uric acid is the same substance that causes gout in humans and is exasperated by a diet high in purines (shellfish, liver, etc..). In dogs uric acid can lead to the formation of bladder stones in specific breeds, such as Dalmatians. Bladder stones are formed when tiny mineral based crystals linger and ultimately bind together in the bladder or urinary tract causing irritation and pain. Most often stones are formed in the dog’s bladder, but they can form in the kidneys or urethra as well. Dogs can have one single large stone or many small stones with Bulldogs, Miniature Schnauzers, Shih Tzu, Dalmatians, and Dachshunds being at the greatest risk. Treating bladder stones in dogs depends of their composition, location, and size. The basic treatment options are surgery, a special diet, and/or medication formulated to dissolve the stone. The most common approach is the implementation of a special diet consisting of dog food with dissolving agents along with increase fluid intake. You might also consider eliminating foods containing the aforementioned purines (fish, organ meats) in favor of those containing a higher vegetable content. If successful the stones will dissolve and pass silently in liquid form. On the other hand if a blockage is present, your veterinarian feels the stone is too large, or it failed to dissolve as planned, surgery will likely be the only option. The best treatment is to take simple preventative measures to avoid bladder stones. There are a few simple steps that can be taken to reduce the chances of stones. 1. Diet is Important – While you may not be able to totally eliminate canine bladder stones with diet you can certainly reduce your pets chances of getting a stone. Remember stones are made up of magnesium and calcium in over 50% of cases! By making smart pet food choices by selecting foods which are low in these minerals may be just what is needed to avoid stones and if you already have a stone you may reduce the size. 2. Make sure to give your dog plenty of fresh filtered water. This will help to keep the urinary system flowing and reduce the risk of developing canine bladder stones. 3. Put your pet on a twice a day exercise routine. Put simply it will encourage your dog to drink more water, increase overall health and happiness, and reduce the chances of developing canine bladder stones. 4. Consider a homeopathic remedy. Many of these remedies work well to dissolve bladder stones, reduce the chances of stone formation, and promote urinary health.
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