Dog Urinary Stone Surgery: Essential Considerations101

Urinary stones, also known as calculi, are solid deposits that form in the urinary tract of dogs. They can range in size from tiny grains to large, obstructive masses. Urinary stones can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

Urinary discomfort or pain
Frequent urination or straining to urinate
Blood in the urine
Clouded or foul-smelling urine
Decreased appetite or lethargy

If your dog is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with your veterinarian promptly. Urinary stones can lead to serious complications, such as urinary tract infections, bladder rupture, and kidney failure.

Treatment for urinary stones typically involves surgical removal. The type of surgery performed will depend on the size, location, and type of stone. In some cases, a minimally invasive procedure may be an option.

Before Surgery

Prior to surgery, your veterinarian will perform a complete physical examination and review your dog's medical history. Bloodwork and imaging tests will also be performed to assess your dog's overall health and the extent of the urinary stones.

Your veterinarian will provide you with specific instructions on how to prepare your dog for surgery. These instructions may include:

Fasting your dog for 12-24 hours before surgery
Providing your dog with plenty of water
Administering any prescribed medications

It is important to follow your veterinarian's instructions carefully to ensure your dog's safety during surgery.

During Surgery

Urinary stone surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. Your veterinarian will make an incision in the abdomen or perineum and remove the stones from the urinary tract. In some cases, a laser may be used to break up the stones before they are removed.

The surgery usually takes one to two hours to complete. Your veterinarian will monitor your dog's vital signs throughout the procedure.

After Surgery

After surgery, your dog will be transferred to the recovery area, where they will be monitored closely. Once your dog is stable, they will be discharged from the hospital with instructions on how to care for them at home.

Post-operative care for your dog may include:

Resting quietly for several days
Eating a soft, bland diet
Taking prescribed medications
Returning to the veterinarian for follow-up checkups

It is important to follow your veterinarian's instructions carefully to ensure your dog's recovery from surgery.

Potential Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential complications associated with urinary stone surgery. These complications include:

Bleeding
Infection
Urinary tract damage
Recurrence of urinary stones

Your veterinarian will discuss the potential risks and benefits of surgery with you before proceeding.

Preventing Recurrence

Once your dog has had urinary stone surgery, it is important to take steps to prevent recurrence. These steps may include:

Feeding your dog a diet that is low in stone-forming minerals
Providing your dog with plenty of water
Monitoring your dog's urine pH
Having your dog seen by your veterinarian for regular checkups

By following these steps, you can help to reduce the risk of urinary stone recurrence in your dog.

2025-02-19

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