Dog Peeing Blood: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatments

Seeing blood in your dog’s urine, medically referred to as hematuria, is an alarming sign that warrants immediate attention. While it may stem from a minor issue, it could also indicate a more serious health concern. This article overviews of potential causes, symptoms, diagnostic steps, treatments, and preventive measures to help you care for your furry friend.

Causes of Blood in Dog Urine

According to  Melissa Boldan, DVM: “Causes of a dog peeing blood can include:

• Urinary tract infections
• Urinary crystals
• Bladder stones
• Bladder cancer
• Kidney disease
• Prostate inflammation
• Cystitis (bladder wall inflammation)
• Vaginal or uterine bleeding
• Clotting disorders
• Toxins (like mouse poison)
• Trauma”

Symptoms to Watch For

If your dog has blood in their urine, additional symptoms may help identify the root cause:

• Frequent or Painful Urination: Straining or discomfort during urination.
• Lethargy: Reduced energy levels.
• Increased Thirst and Urination: Often linked to kidney issues or infections.
• Abdominal Pain: Indicating bladder stones or other issues.
• Fever: A sign of systemic infection.
• Vomiting or Diarrhea: Seen in severe cases like kidney disease.

Diagnostic Steps

Veterinarians use the following methods to determine the cause of hematuria:

• Urinalysis: Examines urine for blood, bacteria, crystals, or abnormalities.
• Urine Culture: Identifies bacteria or fungi to guide treatment.
• Blood Tests: Evaluate kidney, liver, and overall health markers.
• Imaging: X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans help detect stones, tumors, or abnormalities.
• Cystoscopy: A camera is used to inspect the urinary tract internally.
• Biopsy: If a tumor is suspected, a tissue sample can confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment of Blood in Dog Urine

Melissa Boldan, DVM says in a PetMD article that: “If your pup has crystals in their urine, your vet will recommend a prescription diet made to melt the crystals or reduce further formation. These crystals can clump together to form bladder stones, which may need surgery to remove.

If there is inflammation in other parts of the body (like the prostate), anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed.

Bladder cancer is often treated medically with piroxicam, chemotherapy, or surgery.

Toxins and traumas are treated according to what your dog was exposed to and what body parts were injured.”

How Can Pet Insurance Help You if Your Dog Needs A Treatment?

Pet insurance can be a valuable tool in managing the costs of treating a dog’s veterinary expenses. By having a pet insurance policy in place, you can have peace of mind knowing that you can provide medical care for your furry companion without worrying about the financial burden. Pet insurance can help cover the costs of veterinary consultations, diagnostic tests, medications, and even specialized treatments if required.

Reimbursement

This method is the most common for pet insurance companies. You pay out of pocket for the veterinarian bill, and then the insurance company reimburses you for what’s covered under the insurance plan. The steps look like this.

• You pay the vet bill after your dog’s visit.
• You fill out the pet insurance claim form.
• Submit the claim form and other required documentation to the insurer. 
• After the claim is approved, you will be reimbursed for eligible expenses. 

What Does Odie Pet Insurance Cover?

Pet insurance covers various veterinary expenses, providing financial protection and peace of mind for pet owners. Here are the details of the coverage options offered by Odie Pet Insurance:

Illness & Injury Plan

The Illness & Injury Plan is an all-inclusive insurance plan designed to cover a wide range of medical needs for your pet. This plan includes comprehensive coverage for various illnesses, injuries, and veterinary services. Some of the covered items include:

• Veterinary exams and consultations
• Diagnostics (e.g., X-rays, lab tests)
• Prescribed medications
• Surgeries and hospitalization
• Rehabilitation, acupuncture, or chiropractic treatments
• Medically necessary supplies
• Euthanasia and cremation

The Wellness Plan

The Wellness Plan is a monthly membership that focuses on preventive care and covers routine veterinary services.

• Provides reimbursements for routine care items such as wellness visits (exams and vaccines), testing and parasite prevention, dental cleanings and at-home dental care, vitamins, supplements, and more.
• Through Odie’s partnership with Petivity, a leader in smart pet products and proactive care, Wellness Plan members can also receive reimbursements for Petivity devices and health kits, as well as eligible Purina food and supplements.
• Total reimbursement up to $700 per year.