Urinary Incontinence

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                      General Information



Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control.  The causes

vary and include nerve damage, hormone deficiencies, structural

deformities, infections, obstructions from tumors, bladder

stones or an enlarged prostate gland, excessive drinking, and

certain drugs.



One of the more common types of urinary incontinence occurs in

older spayed female dogs and is caused by a deficiency of the

hormone estrogen.  Signs include urine leakage during sleep or

while walking, jumping, etc.  Generally these dogs seem not to

realize they are urinating.  Estrogen supplementation is usually

successful in these females, but treatment is usually necessary

for the rest of the pet's life.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  As there are many causes of incontinence, physical

    examination, laboratory tests, and radiographic (x-ray)

    studies are often needed to correctly diagnose the problem.



2.  Give all medication as directed.  Call the doctor if you

    cannot give the medication.



3.  Diet:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Feed the normal diet.



    ____A special diet is required.  Feed as follows:





4.  Water:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Allow access to fresh water at all times.



    ____Restrict water intake as follows:





5.  Special instructions:





        Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your pet continues to have accidents.



    * Your pet has blood in the urine or around the urinary

    opening.



    * Your pet strains or cannot urinate.



    * Your pet seems unusually thirsty.



    * There is a change in your pet's eating habits.



    ____ A urine sample is requested.