Ann DueSo… you have been asked to collect some Dog Pee???

As a human, if you are feeling unwell – you go to the Doctor.  If you have a tooth ache – you go to the Dentist.  If you are having problems with your eyes – you go to the Optometrist.  But where do we take our dogs – to the VET.  It’s the one stop shop for everything.

Unlike a human however, our local Vet doesn’t have the ability to ask them questions like any human medical professional would.  They cant get a full list of all the ailments – they rely on us to share what we have seen and/or noticed in behavioural and/or physical differences.  The patient after all has a few speech impediments and is unable to speak for themselves.

So you have been to the vet, and nothing conclusive is presenting itself and they ask you to take a urine sample.  Sounds easy – Right??? Maybe for some, but for others it is anything but easy.  The first time I was asked to do this nothing had prepared me for the challenge I was being faced with.

First things first… when should you do it?

In a perfect world, first thing in the morning before anything is in the system to dilute what is required.

Secondly… how??

No doubt you have been given a small jar from your vets and they require it back in that.  Try as you might though – Good Luck to anyone who can teach their dog to pee into that.

It took me a few days to actually make this work.  My GSD rescue boy thought it was a huge game, and got stage fright, and refused to Pee when I first started trying to do this.  I was using a sterile plastic container, with the intention of pouring it into what was required.  Fortunately, we had taught our dogs to pee on command (when required as puppies), and our key word was “Busy Busy”.  So at least he knew what I was after.  For anyone with a new puppy, I do recommend teaching them a command like this.

On day three I did get my perfect specimen, as maybe he got over the game.  But since then I have heard of a few tips should you every be in the same situation.

  1. They don’t need a lot….  If you cant get them to pee into a container, try placing plastic wrap on the ground and peeing onto that.  Use an eye dropper if necessary to collect what is required
  2. Before you try – ensure you know their technique.  You will need to use a different collection method for a squatter than a leg lifter
  3. Make sure you wear gloves…  Sounds simple, but often is forgotten when ‘they are ready to go’.
  4. Get it to the vet as soon as possible

I welcome other people’s ideas on what has worked for them.  It’s not a fun job, but as a parent – you do need to do it.  Good Luck!!!