Dog Incontinence Treatment

Dog incontinence, also known as canine incontinence and often assumed to be a behavioral problem, is actually a health problem that your dog might be suffering from. It cannot be treated by training, to prevent housebreaking or by punishing the dog. It is often assumed to be submissive urination. It is important for dog owners to know the difference between the two. Dog incontinence is a serious medical condition and needs to be treated with appropriate medication. It mostly occurs in older dogs. It is a condition in which the dog is unable to control the leakage of urine and it may occur when the dog is resting or sleeping. It is an involuntary action and the dog is unaware of it.

Causes

Infections: This condition can be caused due to bacterial infections like aspergillosis, prostatitis and cystitis. Urinary tract infections and bladder infections are common causes among female dogs. If the infection is a prolonged one, it disables the bladder from holding back the urine.

Ectopic Ureter: This is a birth-related disorder and is considered to be one of the major causes of this problem. It is a condition in which the ureter opens in the uterus, urethra or vagina instead of the bladder. Female dogs are more prone to Ectopic ureter.

Hormonal Imbalance: It is often caused due to reduced production of hormones like estrogen. The reduced production of hormones causes an imbalance in the normal functioning of the bladder muscles, due to which the dog urinates involuntarily. Female dogs, especially the neutered ones, tend to face this problem.

Age: Dogs may develop incontinence as they grow old. The muscles of their bladder weaken and the bladder is unable to hold back the urine. Older dogs may also develop canine cognitive dysfunction, a condition in which they forget house training and are unaware of urination.

Other possible causes include tumors, neurological disorders, trauma, injuries to the back and spinal cord, diseases like diabetes and arthritis and stress. Diagnosis of this problem can be established by physical examination, urine tests, dye study of the bladder, etc.

Treatment

Canine incontinence can be treated once its cause is identified. As soon as signs of incontinence are observed, a veterinarian should be consulted and appropriate treatment should be administered. In case of the cause being ectopic ureter, surgery is adopted as the method of treatment. In case of infections, hormonal imbalance, etc. drugs are administered. The most common drug administered as a treatment is propalin. Other drugs such as alpha-adrenergic agonists, ephedrine, phenylpropanolamine, incurine, estrogens, etc. may be prescribed. Dogs with incontinence may have to take these medications all life long. If drug therapy fails to cure, surgical methods like colposuspension and cystourethropexy can be adopted. Some herbal and homeopathic medicines are also available as an option. The problem can be handled at home by providing your pet with dog diapers, regularly cleaning their bedding and washing the dog's groin area. Use of anti-bacterial liquids and medications can help prevent infections that can occur due to incontinence. It is important to treat your pet dog with love and care. Punishing or trying to train the dog is the most inappropriate form of treatment to this condition.

As dog owners, it is necessary to know and understand that dog incontinence is a medical condition that your dog is suffering from and it can be effectively treated.