Stanley came in to visit us at VetsOne as he had been having some blood in his urine for a few days. Often, the most common causes of seeing blood in the urine is a bladder infection, urinary tract infection (UTI) or a prostate issue in our male pets. We need to have a closer look at his urine to get a better understanding of what is happening. Urine tests are a great non-invasive way for us to look at the physical (organs) and chemical properties of urine, and to give clear insight if bacteria is a concern. The urine sample was caught, and tests were run inhouse. The findings were negative for bacteria so yay for no infection but there were microscopic signs of blood in Stanley’s urine. An ultrasound scan was conducted and stones were detected (See photos) in Stanley’s bladder.

The signs of bladder stones are very similar to those of a bladder infection or inflammation. The most common signs that a dog has bladder stones is blood in the urine, and in some cases straining to urinate is noticed. Bleeding occurs as the stones rub against the bladder wall, causing irritation and damaging the tissue. Pain, burning, and stinging sensations result from inflammation, and swelling of the bladder walls or the urethra from muscle spasms, or from a blockage urine flow.