Urinary Tract Infections and Their Interaction with the Vulva ⁄ Vulvoplasty in Canines

By David G. Wolf, NGAP Director
Posted: June 22, 2016

We recently saw a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel that for several years has had urinary tract related issues. Upon examination the fur around the vulva area was long and not neatly trimmed making it matted, smelly, and impossible to keep clean. If you are attempting yourself to keep your pet's vulva area clean, you most importantly need to have the fur clipped short which makes it so much easier. After shaving the area it was found that not only was there a flap that restricted the urine flow, there were also multiple tucks that made the area much more convoluted. When the owner left, we knew first that at least for now it would be easier to keep this dog’s private areas clean but ultimately, to eliminate this ongoing problem, a vulvoplasty with the associated surgery around it would be most appropriate. The investment of a pet owner in a vulvoplasty may be up to $1,000 in cost. This will give the pet such wonderful relief and the owner an equal amount or more peace of mind and ease of caring for their dog. It is well worth the investment.