Utah's Leading Veterinary Specialists
Bladder Stone Symptoms in Dogs
If your dog is suddenly having accidents, asking to go outside more often, or straining to urinate, it’s easy to assume it’s just a urinary tract infection.
But sometimes, it’s something more.
Bladder stones are a common and painful condition in dogs, and the symptoms often look similar to a simple UTI. The difference is that bladder stones do not resolve on their own and can become serious if left untreated.
Signs Your Dog Might Have Bladder Stones
Watch for these common symptoms:
1
Straining or painful urination
2
Frequent urination
3
Blood in the urine
4
Urinary accidents in the house
5
Visible discomfort or lethargy
Bladder stones can sometimes cause a complete urinary blockage, which is a medical emergency.
What Are Bladder Stones?
Bladder stones are hardened mineral deposits that form when certain substances in the urine crystallize and clump together over time. The two most common types in dogs are struvite stones and calcium oxalate stones, and they behave very differently when it comes to treatment.
Why Stone Type Matters (and Why It’s Hard to Know)
Not all bladder stones are the same. Some may respond to dietary management, while others cannot dissolve at all.
However, there is one critical limitation:
Unless a veterinarian has physically removed a stone and sent it for laboratory analysis, there is no definitive way to know what type of stone your dog has.
Imaging tests like X-rays and ultrasound can confirm the presence of stones, but they cannot reliably determine stone composition. Because different stones require very different treatment strategies, this uncertainty is one reason veterinarians often recommend stone removal rather than waiting or guessing.
Why These Symptoms Happen
Bladder stones are hard mineral deposits that form inside the bladder. As they move around, they irritate the bladder lining, causing inflammation and pain.
Over time, stones can:
• Scratch and inflame the bladder wall
• Be the source of ongoing urinary tract infections
• Partially or completely block urine flow
• Increase in size and number
Because symptoms overlap with infections, proper diagnosis through imaging is important.
Compare Treatment Options
Laser Lithotripsy vs. Open Surgery
See why more dog owners are choosing minimally invasive treatment for their furry family members.
What is Laser Lithotripsy?
Laser lithotripsy is a minimally invasive way to treat bladder stones in dogs without major surgery. A veterinarian uses a tiny camera and a laser that goes into the bladder through the natural urinary opening in females and through a tiny incision under the tail in males. The laser breaks the stones into very small pieces, which are then flushed out. Unlike open surgery, no small fragments or pieces are left behind.
Feature
Laser Lithotripsy
Open Surgery
Incision Required
Recovery Time
Pain Level
Infection Risk
Stone Removal
Abilities
Scarring
Repeat Procedures
No incision for females, small incision for males
Same-day discharge
Minimal discomfort
Very low risk
Complete stone removal
Can remove stones from the urethra
No visible scarring
Easy to repeat if needed
Large abdominal incision
10-14 days recovery
Significant post-op pain
Higher risk of infection
Stones may be missed
Stones can get stuck in urethra
Permanent surgical scar
More invasive each time
* Consult with our specialists to determine the best treatment for your pet.
Why Choose Our Approach?
Traditional bladder stone surgery involves opening the body wall and the urinary bladder wall, which can lead to pain, infection, and extended recovery. Our approach is different.
No Large Incisions
Our minimally invasive approach means no cutting into your dog's bladder, reducing trauma and complications.
Reduced Complications
Lower risk of infection, bleeding, and other surgical complications compared to traditional open surgery.
Same-Day Discharge
Dogs return home the same day, sleeping in their own bed instead of staying overnight at a hospital.
Complete Stone Removal
Complete stone removal with laser lithotripsy versus traditional surgery which has a 20% chance of stones being left behind.
Can Remove Stones From Urethra
Our method can remove stones that easily get stuck or lost in the urethra, which open surgery cannot do.
What To Expect
What Happens After Diagnosis?
We make the process simple and stress-free for both you and your pet.
Initial Consultation
Our specialists will examine your dog and review diagnostic imaging to confirm the presence and location of bladder stones.
Quick Procedure
The minimally invasive laser lithotripsy procedure typically takes 1-2 hours, with all dogs going home the same day.
Recovery & Follow-Up
Most dogs return to normal activity by the next day. We'll schedule a follow-up to ensure complete healing and stone-free status.
Transparent Pricing
Average cost: $3,800 - $5,800
This pricing incudes: exam, lab work, ultrasound imaging, anesthesia, Laser Lythotripsy procedure, stone analysis, and at-home medication. Final cost depends on the number of stones, stone size, location, gender, and your dog's specific needs. We'll provide a detailed estimate during your consultation.
Payment plans available
Real Stories
Happy Pets, Happy Families
Don't just take our word for it. Hear from pet owners who chose VetMed's minimally invasive procedure.
"He had bladder stones, it's a less invasive procedure. They care for your pet as if it was their own."
- Jane & her dog, Batman
"This clinic is exceptional in every sense of the word! This level of care is rare, and I will never forget it."
- Mickey & their dog, Pancake
"If I could give 10 stars, I would! VetMed Consultants was able to give me an appointment almost immediately."
- Jerene & her dog, Monica
Join over 5,000 pet parents who have chosen VetMed for specialized, minimally invasive treatments that prioritize your pet's health and well-being.
Give Your Dog Relief Today
Have questions? Our team is ready to help. Call us directly or fill out the form and we'll get back to you within 24 hours.