Prostatitis (infection of the prostate gland)

Max, a nine year old mixed breed male dog, came into the clinic. His pet parents were distraught. He was urinating blood and they didn’t know why. It seemed he was also less active and didn’t want to chase his ball. He was also eating less. After a complete physical examination, we determined that Max was running a slight fever and his prostate was enlarged.

Urinalysis and blood work were recommended. The urine contained a large amount of both red and white blood cells. There were also bacteria present. This indicated a urinary tract infection or a prostatitis, an infection of his prostate gland. A clean urine sample was given to the owner to take to Max’s regular veterinarian to submit for a culture and sensitivity testing to help determine which antibiotic was best. Since Max’s prostate was so large on examination; antibiotics should be continued for a long time- even up to 3 months. His blood work revealed that he was otherwise healthy. In the mean time, Max was given an antibiotic injection and some fluids under his skin to increase the amount of urine produced to help flush out his bladder. He was also given antibiotics to start on while waiting for the results of the urine culture and sensitivity.

Since his prostate was so large, it was recommended that he be neutered after a couple of weeks of antibiotics. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BHP, prostatic enlargement) is common in dogs over 7 years old. It is a pre disposing factor to prostatitis and prostatic abscesses. Neutering helps lower the testosterone production and in turn decreases prostatic enlargement.

Max was subsequently neutered a few weeks later, has finished his antibiotics and has since returned to his own self.

Some of the most common emergencies seen by veterinarians are completely preventable. That is correct. Prevention is the key to having a healthy pet. As an emergency clinician, I urge you to develop a good relationship with your primary care veterinarian for all your pets’ basic needs.


Ariana Finkelstein, DVM

I-10 Pet Emergency

10822 Fredericksburg Road

(one block West of IH-10 and Huebner Road)

San Antonio, TX 78240

(210) 691-0900

Dr. Ariana Finkelstein, DVM