How to Deal with Kidney Failure in Dogs

Many people think that chronic kidney failure or chronic renal failure means that the kidneys have stopped working and are not making urine. Fortunately, this is not the case. By definition, chronic renal failure is the inability of the kidneys to efficiently filter the blood of its physiological waste products. At least 2/3 of the kidneys must be dysfunctional before any clinical signs are seen. Sadly, kidney failure can happen in dogs and, usually, this leads to the dog passing away. However, there are many treatments available to pet owners, at home and the vet hospital, to extend your dog’s life for as long as possible and give them the most comfortable and healthy environment possible. If you are worried that your dog may be displaying some dog kidney failure symptoms, worried about the cost of treating kidney failure in dogs or you are in search of a reliable and compassionate vet, call the team at Kirrawee Vet Hospital.

Causes of Canine Kidney Failure

So, what causes kidney failure in dogs? Anything that decreases blood flow through the kidney can cause kidney failure. This includes dehydration from things like severe vomiting and diarrhoea, heatstroke or other disorders causing massive damage to the body’s tissues, such as snakebites. Ordinary table foods like grapes and raisins, as well as certain commercial jerky treat products and aspirins can also cause kidney failure in dogs if ingested. Keep the dog away from grapes and snakes!

Signs & Symptoms of Canine Kidney Failure

Dog kidney failure symptoms include:

• Significant weight loss
• Vomiting
• Pale gums
• Drunken behaviour or uncoordinated movement such as stumbling
• Breath that smells like chemicals
• Significant decrease in appetite
• Increase or decrease in water consumption
• Increase or decrease in volume of urine

Treatments for Canine Kidney Failure

Treatments for kidney failure in dogs include things like:

• Medicines that encourage the production of urine
• Fluid therapy via an IV (available at your local vet hospital)
• Addition of electrolytes to balance out blood levels
• Medicine to reduce vomiting
• Medication to ease gastrointestinal problems
• Recommendations for changes in diet
  
  

It is important to research things like dog kidney failure diet changes and the required changes to your routine if your dog suffers from kidney problems. You may also be wondering ‘is kidney failure in dogs painful?’ and the positive answer is that it is uncomfortable for your dog rather than painful, so they can live with it if adapted properly.

Fluid Therapy Treatment at the Vet

The cost of treating kidney failure in dogs is a common concern, but things like fluid treatment on an IV is a popular and effective method of treatment and your local vet clinic will provide you with all the financial and pragmatic details. For a consultation and treatment plan, call Kirrawee Vet Hospital today.