Is It Time To Say Yes To Dog Diapers?
Even if diapers have already been a fact of your life, incontinence in dogs can be especially frustrating. Dealing with slippery puddles, unexpected spots on the carpet, not to mention the smelly messes in the corner and all the health problems associated with incontinence is not simple.
Managing urinary incontinence takes patience and perseverance. We love our pets so much that we may often look for solutions from the many online products that are recommended for such situations.
Luckily, your team at Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital has some advice for when it’s time to say yes to dog diapers.
Dog Diapers 101
Dog diapers are similar to human diapers except that they have a hole to accommodate the dog’s tail. Like baby diapers, there are both cloth and disposable options available for purchase. You can also make your own DIY dog diapers using old jeans, velcro, and absorbent pads. Simply Google “DIY Dog diapers.”
Cloth diapers are better for the environment, but cost more up front to purchase. Disposable diapers are convenient, but end up in the landfill, and costs add up over time.
Is It Time For Dog Diapers?
Urinary incontinence. Just as in people, dogs can suffer from urinary incontinence. This may be caused by a urinary tract infection, or something more chronic such as spinal disease. It’s crucial to have your pet evaluated by your veterinarian right away if signs of urinary incontinence present themselves. Medications or surgery may be recommended to manage the problem, and diapers may also be a part of the long term solution.
Senior dogs. Older dogs may have more trouble controlling their urges, or they may have trouble getting up in time to make it outside. Senior dogs may also be more prone to cognitive dysfunction as a result of their older age, which can play a role in accidents. In these cases, medications and diapers may both play a permanent role.
Females in heat. Female dogs in heat may leave stains on carpet and furniture. In this case, dog diapers can help keep the house cleaner. They can also prevent the near constant licking that often occurs when female dogs are in heat.
House training. For some owners, dog diapers can help support house training efforts. Since accidents are par for the course during house training, dog diapers can be employed to keep the house cleaner while your adult dog or puppy is learning the ropes. Rely on them too much, however, and house training may take longer. Dogs ultimately need to learn when and where to go, so proceed with caution.
Things To Know About Using Dog Diapers
Before using dog diapers, check in with us. There may be other solutions to a challenge you’re facing. The underlying medical causes of urinary incontinence should be diagnosed and treated before using dog diapers.
- Dog diapers vary greatly in fit and absorbance. Look for a high quality product and follow the measuring instructions precisely to choose the appropriate fit for your dog.
- Just like babies, dogs who wear diapers need to be changed frequently. A dog should not have to sit in her urine or feces.
- Wear gloves when changing your dog’s diaper to avoid touching urine or stool
- Use baby wipes to clean your dog when you change him
- If your dog has a docked tail, use tape to close over the tail hole so that nothing leaks out.
Please don’t hesitate to contact our team if you have questions or need to schedule an appointment. We are here to help!