The most common symptoms of vaginitis in dogs include bloody, mucoid, or purulent discharge from the vulva, licking of the vulvar area, increased frequency of urination, and scooting or rubbing the vaginal area along the ground. The vulva may appear swollen and inflamed.
Vaginitis is usually diagnosed by medical history, clinical signs, and physical examination by a veterinarian. Diagnostic tests may be necessary and include complete blood count (CBC), blood chemistry, urinalysis, cytology of the vagina, culture and sensitivity tests, ultrasound, and vaginoscopy.
Cost will be dependent on severity of diagnosis.
Dogs treated with medical therapy typically recover within a week of starting therapy. If surgery is performed, expected recovery is 2 weeks after surgery. Exercise should be restricted until sutures are removed.
Dogs experiencing vaginitis should be monitored at home for response to treatment and signs of recurrence. Vaginitis can develop into a chronic condition, especially in dogs with a vulvar fold abnormalities and untreated urinary incontinence.
Cleaning the vulvar area, especially between any skin folds, frequently with a medicated cleansing wipe may help to decrease the occurrence of vaginitis.
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