Consult your veterinarian immediately. They’ll assess your dog’s overall health and determine the severity of the incontinence. This is crucial for creating a personalized treatment plan.
Dietary Adjustments
Diet plays a significant role. A diet low in sodium can help reduce fluid retention, which often contributes to incontinence. Your vet might recommend a specific prescription diet. Increased fiber intake can improve bowel regularity, potentially minimizing stress incontinence.
Medication Management
Your vet might adjust the prednisone dosage or prescribe additional medications. This could include medications to directly address urinary incontinence, such as phenylpropanolamine ( PPA) or other options depending on your dog’s needs and the underlying cause. Closely monitor your dog for side effects from any new medications.
Lifestyle Changes
Regular exercise helps maintain muscle tone, supporting bladder control. Maintaining a consistent feeding and water schedule can also improve bladder function. Regular veterinary checkups are vital for ongoing monitoring and adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.
Behavioral Modification
House training techniques may help if your dog has developed a habit of urinating indoors. Positive reinforcement is key; reward successful potty breaks. Frequent potty breaks can prevent accidents.
Other Treatments
In some cases, your vet might recommend additional treatments, such as estrogen therapy for female dogs or surgery to address underlying conditions contributing to incontinence. Discuss all options thoroughly with your veterinarian.
Monitoring Your Dog
Observe your dog closely. Note any changes in urination frequency, accidents, or other symptoms. Report any concerns to your vet promptly. Consistent monitoring is key to successful management.
