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.
Medications are used to increase the tone (tightness)
of the sphincter that maintains the urine in the bladder. Two
commonly used medications are estrogens (female hormones) and
phenylpropanolamine.
We hope that you will find this information helpful in your quest for better pet care. If you have any questions or comments, please call your veterinarian's office, or feel free to e-mail us.
David E. Hammett, DVM
and the Staff of All Creatures Veterinary Clinic,
PC
