Noticing blood in your dog’s urine can be a frightening experience, and it’s natural to feel worried about what might be going on with your pet’s health. As a pet owner, you know your dog can’t tell you when something is wrong, so spotting unusual symptoms like this can leave you searching for answers. While the sight of blood in your dog’s urine is alarming, it’s important to understand that there are several possible causes—some more serious than others. By learning more about the potential reasons behind this issue, you can take the right steps to get your dog the care they need.
What Does Blood in Your Dog’s Urine Mean?
When you notice your dog is peeing blood, it’s usually a sign of an underlying medical condition that needs attention. Blood in urine, or hematuria, could stem from several issues affecting different parts of your dog’s urinary or reproductive system. Any instance of blood in your dog’s urine should prompt an immediate visit to your vet or emergency clinic. Ignoring this symptom can lead to worsening conditions and additional health complications for your dog.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract, leading to inflammation and discomfort. While UTIs are treatable, if left unchecked, they can escalate into more severe kidney infections. Dogs with UTIs often exhibit additional symptoms, such as frequent urination, straining to urinate, and licking their genital area. If your dog is showing any combination of these signs along with blood in their urine, have them evaluated by a veterinarian. Call East Metro Animal Emergency Clinic at (678) 212-0300 if you notice these symptoms, as prompt treatment can prevent complications.
Bladder Stones
These stones form from minerals in the urine and can range in size from tiny grains to larger, more obstructive stones. As they move through the urinary tract, bladder stones can cause irritation, bleeding, and even blockages, making urination difficult or painful. Symptoms of bladder stones may include frequent urination, straining, and discomfort. In severe cases, a complete blockage can occur, which is a life-threatening emergency. If you suspect bladder stones could be the issue, your dog needs immediate medical attention to prevent further complications. This is another scenario where reaching out to our emergency team at (678) 212-0300 could make a critical difference in your dog’s health.
Trauma or Injury
Whether caused by a car accident, a fall, or another external injury, trauma can lead to internal bleeding, especially in the bladder or kidneys. Even if the injury doesn’t seem severe, internal damage can cause hematuria and other health concerns. In cases of trauma, you might notice additional symptoms such as lethargy, pain, or swelling around the affected area. Always take your dog to your veterinarian as soon as possible after any traumatic event to assess for internal injuries, including those that might cause blood in the urine.
Kidney or Bladder Cancer
Tumors in the urinary tract or kidneys can lead to bleeding, particularly as they grow larger or become irritated. Cancer-related hematuria is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as weight loss, lethargy, or changes in appetite. Cancer can be a difficult diagnosis to process, but early detection can improve your dog’s treatment options and outcomes. If you’ve noticed blood in your dog’s urine and other concerning symptoms, we recommend contacting East Metro Animal Emergency Clinic at (678) 212-0300 to schedule an evaluation.
Additional Causes of Blood in Your Dog’s Urine
While UTIs, bladder stones, trauma, and cancer are some of the primary causes of blood in your dog’s urine, other conditions can also lead to hematuria. Below are a few more potential reasons why your dog is peeing blood:
Prostate Disease
Male dogs, particularly those that are unneutered, can experience prostate issues that cause blood in their urine. Enlarged prostates, infections, or tumors in the prostate gland can lead to hematuria. These conditions can also make urination painful or difficult. Symptoms of prostate disease may include difficulty passing urine, straining, and changes in gait. Neutering male dogs can reduce the risk of prostate problems, but if you suspect your dog may have a prostate issue, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Blood Clotting Disorders
In some cases, blood in a dog’s urine can be caused by a blood clotting disorder. These disorders affect your dog’s ability to clot blood properly, making internal bleeding more likely, even in the absence of trauma. Certain breeds may be more prone to clotting disorders, or the issue could be the result of a medication or underlying disease. If your dog has a known clotting disorder and begins peeing blood, it’s critical to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the condition, your veterinarian will determine the best course of treatment.
Poisoning
Exposure to certain toxins, such as rodenticides, can cause internal bleeding in dogs, which might show up as blood in their urine. In cases of poisoning, dogs may display other signs of distress, such as vomiting, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxin, don’t wait to see if symptoms worsen. Contact your local emergency clinic or animal poison control immediately to seek guidance on how to proceed.
What To Do if Your Dog is Peeing Blood
If your dog is peeing blood, take action to address the root cause and prevent further complications. Hematuria is never a symptom to ignore, as it could signal anything from a minor infection to a life-threatening condition. The first step is to contact a veterinarian or an emergency clinic, especially if the blood in the urine is accompanied by other symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, or difficulty urinating. At East Metro Animal Emergency Clinic, we’re equipped to handle urgent cases like this, offering diagnostics and treatments to help your dog feel better as quickly as possible. Call us at (678) 212-0300 for immediate assistance.
Diagnostic Tools to Identify the Cause
When you bring your dog to the clinic for hematuria, your veterinarian will use several diagnostic tools to identify the underlying cause. This process might involve:
- A urinalysis to check for bacteria, blood cells, and other abnormalities.
- Blood tests to assess kidney function and screen for systemic issues.
- Imaging techniques such as X-rays or ultrasounds to look for stones, tumors, or internal injuries.
By combining these diagnostic tools, your vet can pinpoint the cause of your dog’s symptoms and create an effective treatment plan.
The Importance of Veterinary Care for Your Dog’s Health
No matter the reason your dog is peeing blood, seek veterinary care promptly. Blood in the urine is often a sign of an underlying condition that can progress if left untreated. Your dog’s health and well-being depend on timely intervention to ensure they receive the best possible care. At East Metro Animal Emergency Clinic, we understand how stressful it can be when your dog shows signs of illness. We’re here to provide compassionate, expert care to get your pet back on track. If your dog is peeing blood, call us at (678) 212-0300, and let us help guide you through the next steps in ensuring your dog’s health.
