[Frances22747]

My 10 year old sheltie, Clipper, was vomiting so I rushed him to the vet. He was dehydrated and had a bladder infection. They gave him an IV and I have two medications, antibiotic and a pill to stop the nausea. At this writing I just gave him his second antibiotic. I am worried because he will not drink his water, but is eating rice and chicken. I put some chicken broth mixed with water in his bowl and then spoon fed him the broth with a little bread. Otherwise, at this point he will not drink his water. Of course, he is eating snow outside, but I know this is not enough fluid. Usually eats ice cubes, but won't do that either. Not sure if he is this way because the antibiotics haven't kicked in yet or if there may be a secret of getting fluids in to him. Any help would be appreciated.

[shazamataz]

It can take a few days for the pain from a bladder infection to subside.
If you are worried about him not getting enough fluids you can force them into him, but if he is eating snow he should be OK (depending on how much he is eating)
Pedialyte is safe for dogs and is available at supermarkets.
For dogs not drinking it is recommended just to squirt a syringe full down their throat even half hour.

[Frances22747]

Thank you so much for your answer. I will get some Pedialyte tomorrow morning. I cooked chicken tonight and put some in his bowl with just a covering of water. He did drink the water to get to the chicken. So I may have found an answer to the puzzle. I think that Pedialyte would be the answer on top for the chicken until he starts drinking normally. Again, thank you, thank you for your answer. I have felt a bit alone with this problem. If only Clipper could talk, so I could understand him.

[shazamataz]

Putting water in the food is good if he will take it that way. I have trouble getting my pup to eat dry food so I soak it for a little bit in either water or pet milk.

You definitely aren't alone with this problem. I personally haven't had a male with a bladder infection, but I have had several females, they cry, lick at themselves and generally seem miserable. He will be OK in a few days once those antibiotics work their magic :)

[Frances22747]

Unfortunately, Clipper produces kidney stones. He had two surgeries to remove them and finally on the 3rd time dealing with the stones, our vet finally told us about the surgery that creates an opening like a female dog. The vet says this way when the stones form he will pass them easily. So now I have a male dog with female problems. Thanks again for your support.

[shazamataz]

I've never heard of that surgery, I'll have to look into it.
I have a female with bladder problems but unfortunately they can't do surgery on her (well they can, but it is highly likely it won't fix the problem) so she is constantly on medication to try and stop her from wetting herself in her sleep.

Good luck with Clipper, I hope he feels better soon poor thing.