Empty cream cheese container[1] X Research source Shallow food storage container[2] X Research source
If you have a backyard, take your dog out to where she usually urinates. [5] X Research source Consider timing the collection for when you know your dog will need to urinate, such as first thing in the morning or after a meal.
You will slide the container between your dog’s back legs, so try to stand beside or slightly behind your dog.
If you hold the container, you may get some urine on your hand. [7] X Research source Have some disinfectant wipes or hand sanitizer nearby in case your hand gets urine on it. Make sure the urine gets in the container. You may need to reposition the container if the urine is hitting the ground. Let your female dog finish urinating before you move the container away.
If you used a pie plate, pour the urine into a container with a sealable lid if possible. Otherwise, cover it tightly with two layers of plastic wrap. Wash your hands before and after covering the container.
If you choose to store the urine sample in the fridge, wrap the container in a plastic bag first. [11] X Research source If you’re not comfortable having the urine sample close to your food, a cooler would probably the better storage choice. A urine sample more than 12 hours old is no longer fresh and may not give accurate results. If more than 12 hours pass between collecting your female dog’s urine sample and the appointment with your vet, let the vet know how old the sample is, so they can decide if it will affect the results and if a new sample is necessary.
When you take your dog to the vet’s office, one of the vet’s staff can take your dog outside to get the urine sample.
