Diabetic dog with bloody urine on weekend, should I see an ER vet?

Question

My dog has been having bloody urine for two days when she pees. She is diabetic and prone to urinary tract infections. My regular vet is closed on weekends. Her regular vet always prescribes her the same antibiotic and pain meds for her urinary tract infection. I was told by someone that UTI's can cause my dog pain and I don't want her to be in pain. Should I take her to the Emergency vet today for her bloody urine, antibiotics and pain meds? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 11 years and 8 months old | 74 lbs

Christie Long, DVM · Accepted Answer

UTI's can cause your dog pain, that's for sure. If you've ever had one yourself you might know that the burning sensation and pain in the lower abdomen are quite uncomfortable. The pain isn't terrible, for sure, but there's no doubt that Bella isn't feeling well. In addition, in a diabetic dog, UTI's can indicate that she is poorly regulated (i.e. there is routinely glucose in her urine) and having one signals that it's a good idea to check blood glucose as well, to determine if an adjustment might be considered in insulin dosage. Checking a quick urine dipstick can also ease your mind that she is not tipping over into diabetic ketoacidosis as well, which is a very serious condition. It's also worth noting that even though the same antibiotic is prescribed each time, when UTI's occur frequently the bacteria that cause them can become stronger, and more resistant to the normally-used antibiotics - this is why urine culture is so valuable in these cases, in order to make sure that the appropriate antibiotic is used. I would recommend that you get her in today, since it's another 36 hours since your regular vet opens, and that's a long time for her to be uncomfortable.

Diabetic dog with bloody urine on weekend, should I see an ER vet?

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