VCA Mission Animal Referral and Emergency Center

Why does my dog still have accidents in the house?

Published: May 14, 2012

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When you are raising puppies and housebreaking them, you probably expect some accidents here and there as they learn what is acceptable. But when puppy training is over and your dog is still eliminating in the house, there may be a more serious underlying issue to blame.

Urination and defecation in the house can be caused by a number of issues. If the canine is suffering from some type of food intolerance or an illness that causes diarrhea in dogs, it may have accidents in the home because it cannot control its bowels. If your dog is having diarrhea for an extended period of time, you should bring it to the veterinarian. VCA Animal Hospitals reports that bacterial and viral infections, parasites, tumors or issues with diet can cause diarrhea. Urination inside the house may be caused by a urinary tract infection or other issue with the dog's bladder that causes incontinence.

If your adult dog is suddenly having accidents in the home and there is no clear medical cause behind it, it might be a behavioral issue that needs to be addressed. According to DogChannel.com, many dogs experience excitement urination. This may occur when you first walk in the door and greet your pooch, or when it is frightened by something. This issue is generally not under the dog's control, but you can help by making greetings low-key and talking to your vet about ways to reduce your dog's anxiety if that is the trigger. 

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General Practice

We have over 540 animal hospitals in 41 states that are staffed by more than 2,000 fully qualified, dedicated and compassionate veterinarians, with more than 200 being board-certified specialists. The nationwide VCA family of general practice hospitals give your pet the very best in medical care, providing a full range of general medical and surgical services as well as specialized treatments*: Wellness, Spay/neuter, Advanced diagnostic services (MRI/CT Scan), Internal medicine, Oncology, Ophthalmology, Dermatology, Cardiology, Neurology, Boarding, Grooming

*services may vary by location.

Our family of pet hospitals stands out by delivering the greatest resources in order provide the highest quality care available for your pets. By maintaining the highest standards of pet health care available anywhere, we emphasize prevention as well as healing. We provide continuing education programs to our doctors and staff and promote the open exchange of professional knowledge and expertise. And finally, we have established a consistent program of procedures and techniques, proven to be the most effective in keeping pets healthy.

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Emergency Care

VCA Mission Animal Referral and Emergency Center '" 913-722-5566

In a life-threatening emergency situation, take your pet to an emergency facility immediately. Heavy or difficult breathing, weakness or collapse, pain/vocalizing, seizures, protracted vomiting or diarrhea, and unresponsiveness are just a few signs that warrant immediate attention. If your pet has ingested a poison or medication not prescribed for it, call one of the emergency numbers below. You may be instructed to make your pet vomit. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to by a veterinarian. Bring the poison or medication container with you.

ASPCA Poison Control '" 1-888-426-4435

Use caution when moving an injured, painful, distressed, or disoriented pet. A fearful or painful animal may bite, regardless of its normal temperament. Speak soothingly and calmly, move slowly, and wear gloves. Your pet should be moved as little as possible. An injured pet should be transported on a stretcher or board, or, in the case of smaller animals, a carrier or box with sturdy base. A muzzle may be useful if your pet is painful but should not be used if your pet is having difficulty breathing. Covering your pet with a blanket or towel may help prevent heat loss and may encourage calmness. Most importantly, stay calm and drive carefully. 

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