Urinalysis and Fecal Exam

Fecal material is examined both grossly and microscopically. Gross examination of feces involves looking at the texture, colour, or presence of blood or adult worms. Microscopic examination allows us to see eggs of internal parasites (roundworms, tapeworms, protozoan parasites etc.). It is possible for dogs to carry these parasites without any clinical signs. It is especially important to run this test when there are clinical signs (diarrhea, bloated stomach), which can rule out parasites as being the cause. Unfortunately, due to the life cycle of some parasites, we can miss seeing evidence of them on fecal analysis. We strongly recommend regular deworming as a preventative for this reason, especially if your dog’s lifestyle puts them at a higher risk.

Your veterinarian will prescribe your dog an antibiotic in the event a urinary tract infection is diagnosed. After the medication is finished, it is important to have the urine retested to ensure that the infection has completely cleared up. A longer course of antibiotics may be needed if it hasn’t.