Studying Bacteria that Cause Urinary Stones

Urinary stones are a common problem in dogs, and one that can cause life-threatening obstruction of the urinary tract. It is suspected that natural bacteria in the gut can help prevent this condition. Using Morris Animal Foundation funding, researchers from the University of Minnesota examined these helpful natural bacteria in healthy dogs and compared them to those in dogs with urinary stones. They confirmed that a lack of certain types of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract of dogs increases their risk of urinary stone formation. The team was able to produce three probiotic bacteria that have the potential to be used for preventing and treating urinary stones in dogs. This study also provided research training for a veterinary graduate student who has now received her PhD and accepted a postdoctoral fellow position to study vaccine development at the University of Minnesota.

Categories: Animal health, Canine health, Dog health

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