Longitudinal examination of urine pH, specific gravity, protein, culture, and antimicrobial resistance profiles in healthy dogs

Abstract

Background: Urine is routinely evaluated in dogs to assess health. Reference ranges for many urine properties are well established, but the scope of variation in these properties over time within healthy dogs is not well characterized. Objectives: Longitudinally characterize urine properties in healthy dogs over 3 months. Animals: Fourteen healthy client-owned dogs. Methods: In this prospective study, dogs were evaluated for health; then, mid-stream free-catch urine was collected from each dog at 12 timepoints over 3 months. Urine pH, urine specific gravity (USG), protein, cultures, and antimicrobial resistance profiles were assessed at each timepoint. Results: Urine pH varied within and between dogs over time (Friedman's test: within P =.03; between P 105 CFU/mL) should not be considered the only indicator of urinary tract infection. Bacterial isolates from dogs in this study had widespread resistance to amoxicillin/oxacillin underscoring the need for antimicrobial stewardship.