Canine Prostate Awareness Month
Recent research shows that at least 80% of unneutered male dogs over 5 years old
are likely to have some sort of Prostate Disease (read our article on canine prostate
hyperplasia for more details).
If you own a male unneutered dog who is 5 years or older, then we encourage you
to get him checked. All you need to do is book an appointment.
We also have a limited number of free slip leads, which can be given on a first
come, first served basis to the first dogs are checked in November.
Canine benign prostatic hyperplasia
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non cancerous enlargement of the prostate
gland. It is associated with the male sex hormone testosterone and is the most
common disease of the prostate. Prostate disease is common in middle aged to
older dogs that have not been castrated. Recent research shows that at least 80%
of unneutered dogs over five years old are likely to be suffers.
What is the prostate?
The prostate is a small gland located near the neck of the
bladder in male dogs. The urethra (the tube that carries urine
from the bladder to outside the body) passes through the
prostate. The purpose of the prostate is to produce some of
the fluids found in semen.
What are the signs of prostate disease?
A dog with prostate enlargement often has a history of
straining to urinate and/or defecate. Dogs will spend a
prolonged time trying to urinate and this urine can also
be bloody, with blood sometimes dripping from the
penis. Dogs that also have difficulty in passing faeces
(constipation) will often produce flattened/squashed
faeces. Some dogs will also have a stiff gait and arched
back
How is prostate disease diagnosed?
To see if the prostate is enlarged your vet will attempt to feel the prostate either
through the abdominal wall or through the rectal wall. Radiographs (x-rays) or
ultrasound may be required to help diagnosis. A microscopic examination of the
cells in the prostate from fluid obtained from the prostate is often taken to rule out
other cause of prostate enlargement (see other cause below). A new blood test is
also now available.
How is BHP treated?
Enlargement of the gland is caused by testosterone which is produced by the
testicles. Surgical Treatment involves removing the testicles (castration) which
generally restores the prostate to normal size within 1 month of castration.
The alternative Medical Treatment is a course of tablets taken daily for 7 days.
These tablets help reduce the size of the prostate gland by 40% within 2 weeks and
the effect lasts for 5 months whilst also preserving reproductive function.
How is BHP prevented?
Getting your male dog neutered (castrated) is the only prevention for BHP.
Other causes of prostate enlargement.
*****info supplied by Ashcroft Vet Services
"Pawderosa Ranch's "Mustache-A-Dog" is raising awareness of canine prostate cancer, an
extremely serious disease that affects older male dogs.
100% of proceeds will benefit SpaySA to expand their wellness center and improve the
lives of dogs in San Antonio and Bexar County. Thanks for your support!”