Though not very common in the dog

Though not very common in the dog

Though not very common in the dog

Retention of urine, though not very common in the dog, is, however, encountered too frequently to be termed a rare affection. It mostly accompanies debility, during the last stage of distemper, and is sometimes present in paralysis of the hind extremities. I have not seen a case in which it took the acute form, though obviously it may do so.

The symptoms generally are obscure; for in the majority of instances the distension of the bladder will simply aggravate the general uneasiness. The condition of the part, therefore, may not be suspected, but in such cases it is to be ascertained by manipulation. By taking the animal, and gently pressing its abdomen, if the bladder be empty, the intestines will be felt; but if the viscus be full, there will be a soft and pulpy mass under the fingers. The sensation imparted by it conveys the idea that it is fluid, and the greatest care will in it detect nothing denoting substance or form. The proof thus obtained is positive, and will not deceive him who has accepted it. All pretending to administer to canine disease should be able to read this indication, but sometimes others direct attention to its presence.