@ Maureen W,
http://bichonhealth.org/HealthInfo/UrinaryStones.htm (excerpts from article below)
“It has long been recognized that some Bichons Frises have a predisposition to formation of urinary stones (uroliths). This condition is known as urolithiasis. There are several types of stones that can form in the bladder, with struvite (also called magnesium triple phosphate or “infection” stones) and calcium oxalate being the most common in Bichons”.
“The most important preventative for stone formation is free access to fresh water. For a dog predisposed to stone formation, there are other considerations as well”.
“This article is intended to provide the pet owner with a better understanding of the prevention and treatment of urinary stones. Good veterinary treatment is the most reliable resource for the ongoing care of your dog. You may wish to copy this article for your veterinarian”.
“Key Point: It is not yet possible to dissolve calcium oxalate uroliths by dietary management”.
“However, compliance with feeding special diets and avoiding use of certain drugs will minimize
risk factors known to be associated with calcium oxalate urolith formation”.
