Tests

There are 3 types of test that a cystinuric dog owner should be aware of as they may save a dogs life.

1. DNA test for cystinuria. This will show if your dog is a carrier, affected or clear. The test is easily done by sending a dewclaw to an animal DNA lab for examination. The cost is about 45 USD. Testing while your dog is still a pup can safe the both of you a lot of trouble in the future.

2. Ultrasound testing. This allows you to see if there are any stones formed in the kidney or bladder. Finding stones at an early stage of formation can help minimize operation procedures and even avoid the if done early.

3. Urine test. This shows the presence of Cystine crystals in the urine as well as the pH levels. By finding Cystine in your dog;s urine you might be able to prevent stone formation before it occurs.

Should you be an owner of a cystinuric dog that has undergone surgery and are now on meds and prescription food, it is strongly advised that you monitor you dog by performing a urine test every month for the first 3 months and then every 3 months. If you have any level of Cystine in the urine then it is again strongly advised that you also monitor your dog by scanning it with ultrasounds.