In
my review of this recurrent urolithiasis, for the
benefit of dog owners, the vet did not perform a
stone analysis in the first cystotomy done 12
months ago. This was probably due to the
owner's instructions to reduce costs. In the
recurrent case, operated by at Toa Payoh Vets by
Dr Vanessa, I insisted on a stone analysis.
The results were as follows as this ought to be
done to know the type of stones present and hence
a preventive program using prescription diet or
other ways to manage and prevent
recurrence.
12.1.12 At Vet 1
after midnight emergency
Shih Tzu, Male, 8 years old
BLOOD TEST
URINE TEST
X-RAY
WBC
high 24.48 (5.5 -17)
Neutrophils 82%, L=3.6%, Mono = 12.9%
Absolute High for Neutrophils,
Monocytes, Basophils, Platelets, BUN,
ALKP.
Do
proper planning before surgery to save
on manpower time and resources and to
reduce length of anaesthesia, ensuring
better survival outcome for old dogs.
No
crystals in the urine do not mean no
urinary stones inside the bladder or
kidneys
Negative for oxalate, urate,
magnesium, cystine, ammonia,
bicarbonate.
In
conclusion, most Singaporean pet owners don't
bother with prescription diets, monthly urine
tests and 3-monthly X-ray to detect small urinary
stones which can be flushed out using
urohydropropulsion and thereby saving on
surgery and higher costs. However, it is THE DUTY
of the veterinary surgeon to record in the case
sheet that such advices have had been offered
to the owner to prevent misunderstanding when
there is a recurrence.
Younger Singaporeans may be much more
sophisticated and educated and may understand the
need for such preventive tests. But many
Singaporeans are time-pressed. Till the dog can't
pee or pass blood and then they may consult the
vet. I hope this review will provide some
information to owners who wants more information
on prevention as I do know of some owners who
would just euthanase the dog when there is a
recurrence.
TOA
PAYOH VETS
