How To Get A Urine Sample From A Dog – Top Dog Tips
Your veterinarian may require a urine sample for any number of reasons. Urine is the end result of the body’s filtration system, so there is a lot that can be learned by testing the levels of certain nutrients found in the urine. Learning how to get a urine sample from a dog is a must for every pet owner. It’s better to learn before you actually need this information.
Collecting a urine sample is actually a lot easier than you may think. I know most owners cringe at the thought, but it’s actually not that bad. If you’ve had a bad experience in the past that resulted in getting urine on your hands or clothing, you need to watch this video guide.
Your veterinarian may recommend a urinalysis for a number of reasons. Sometimes they will collect a sterile sample by inserting a long needle directly into the bladder and extracting urine. However, if they know they will need the sample in advance of your visit they may ask you to collect one yourself and bring it in with you.
Your vet will require that the sample be as fresh as possible – usually less than 30 minutes old if possible. If the urine is not refrigerated, it needs to be tested within 2 hours of collection, but refrigeration can extend that time up to 5 or 6 hours.
How To Get A Urine Sample From A Dog
You’re going to need a ladle and a small container with a lid when you’re learning how to get a urine sample from a dog. In my video I explain that I purchased a ladle at the dollar store, and I use Ziploc Twist n’ Loc containers. These containers can be found at virtually any store that carries Ziploc bags. They’re cheap and leak proof.
Now that you have the right supplies, you just have to time things just right. If you observe your dog, then you know her regular routine. Give her a drink of water about 45-60 minutes before you need to collect the urine sample.
If she won’t drink water, try adding a tablespoon of low sodium broth to the water bowl. That should entice her to take a drink. Adding ice cubes or a few pieces of sliced fruit (strawberries, bananas or blueberries) may also entice her drink, as she may think it’s a game.
After 45-60 minutes have passed, take your pup outside and follow her around until she finds a place to pee. Be patient, because it may take her longer than normal with you following behind her.
Once she squats down, stick the ladle underneath the stream of urine and collect your sample. If you dog is a male and lifts his left to pee, you’ll do the same thing – you may just need to be a bit more creative when it comes to catching the urine.
Now, it’s easy to dump the urine from the ladle into the container. Apply the lid, and you’re good to go! The handle of the ladle allows you to keep your hand out of the way while collecting the sample, so you shouldn’t end up with urine on your skin or clothes.
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