DOG HEALTH - BLOOD IN URINE

There are many causes of blood in the urine of a dog. Some are easily treatable and others may be more dangerous. It is important to look for other associated symptoms which may provide clues as to the etiology of the bleeding and the overall health of the dog.

Look for the frequency of urination, the amount of urine urinated, and whether or not urinating seems to cause pain to the dog. Check and see if the dog is vomiting, has fever, or seems ill. These are all ways to get a sense of the overall health of the dog at that moment.

Here is a list of causes of blood in the urine of a favourite canine pet:

1. URINARY TRACT INFECTION

It has been estimated that approximately 10% of dogs will eventually have a urinary tract infection.

Not all canine urinary tract infections will result in blood in the urine but some will. There may be associated symptoms such as increased frequency of urination, small amounts being passed each time, and maybe discomfort with urination.

To make the diagnosis of a urinary tract infection in dogs, a sample of the urine must be provide to the vet who will send the sample to a laboratory to verify if there is indeed a urinary tract infection.

The treatment of urinary tract infections is a course of antibiotics which the vet can prescribe.

2. PROSTATE INFECTIONS

Prostate infections in dogs may also present with blood in the urine. If the dog is older and has a history of frequent urination with small amounts, the dog may have prostatic hypertrophy as well.

3. KIDNEY STONES

Dogs, like humans, can suffer from kidney stones. Like in humans, kidney stones can cause pain and blood in the urine. 

4. TUMORS

Tumors in the urinary system from the kidney proximally alll the way to the blader distally can cause blood in a dog's urine. look for associated symptoms such as decreased appetite, weight loss, and loss of energy. 

5. TRAUMA

Trauma to the kidneys or other portions of the urinary tract such as the bladder or urethra may cause blood in the urine. It is important to look therefore for signs of trauma.

 6. POISONING

Certain poisons such as rat poison (warfarin) may cause blood in the urine. Look for other signs of bleeding such as bruises or bleeding from gums.

7. TICK BITES

Occasionally,  a tick bite may cause blood in a dog's urine. Ticks can carry parasites that can cause Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Ehrlichiosis.

8. DRUG REACTIONS

Check if  the dog been on any new medications in the recent past.

In all cases, take the dog to a vet for a full examination and assessment of the dog's overall health, and analysis and culture of the urine.