Wilma is an 8 year old crossbreed. She is our January Pet of the Month because she has been through a huge operation and came out the other end tail wagging and happy as ever.

Wilma had a large bladder stone causing her great pain and discomfort.

This is the bladder stone that was in Wilma

Bladder stones, or uroliths, are stone-like mineral deposits that form in the animal’s urinary bladder. Bladder stones may occur as a single deposit, or consist of many smaller pieces. They can be large (as in Wilma’s case) and take up most of the bladder, or be fine particles that are passed when the animal urinates.  As Wilmas stone was so large, she needed surgery to remove it from her bladder.

The two most common signs of bladder stones are blood in the urine, and straining to urinate. The blood is the result of the stones rubbing against the bladder wall. The straining results from the irritation to the bladder and urethra, or from small stones or sand passing out of the bladder when the animal urinates. If the stones move out of the bladder and get stuck in the urethra an obstruction occurs. This is a painful, life threatening condition. If the obstruction is not quickly relieved the bladder can rupture, and the animal will die. If you suspect a problem you should contact your veterinarian immediately

Prevention is always preferable to curing diseases. Your pet should always have plenty of clean, fresh water available. Just as important is the opportunity for your pet to pass urine. Frequent walks allow the animal to urinate and flush bacteria and crystals from the bladder.

Wilma made a great recovery and for her loving nature and endless patience through all the prodding and poking,  she thoroughly deserves Pet of the Month!

Wilma