Nobody likes to find a puddle on the tile floor, or walk across the carpet with bare feet or socks and get that “sinking feeling” when your toes touch the tinkle.
It’s normal for puppies to make mistakes, and many pets with bladder problems have accidents because of urinary tract, kidney, metabolic and neurological issues (which is why you should always take a pet who is urinating more frequently or having accidents to the veterinarian for a checkup before assuming it’s a behavior issue).
But some older pets, just like older people, can’t hold their bladder as long anymore, or at all. So even if your veterinarian can’t provide a specific diagnosis and effective treatment plan, there are some things you can do to help keep your house dry. Here are my top three tips:
1. Nip the nightcap. Unless it’s medically contraindicated, limit the amount of water your dog has access to in the evening and during the night.
2. Put Mother Nature on speed dial. Most senior pets need more opportunities to relieve themselves. Take pets outside as soon as they wake up and as within 15 minutes of them eating or drinking. You may also have to add one late night potty to the list as your pet ages. For example, I have a senior dog who can no longer hold it between the time we go to bed and and when we wake up. And neither can I, so I take Quixote outside to do his business just before bedtime, then when I get up during the night, I let him out at the same time.
3. Doggie diapers. Don’t laugh. Pet diapers are available at pet stores and online. Better in the diaper than on your carpeting, upholstery, bedding or floors. Make sure to change frequently so that your dog doesn’t get a moist dermatitis (also known as diaper rash).
