Jack Russell with past kidney stones

Question
Hello, I have a 12yr old JRT that had kidney stones last year. He had 12 removed, and has been on Hill's Prescription Diet Canine u/d. I was researching and noticed it didn't get the best reviews. He also takes Cosequin DS for mild arthritis in his back legs. I was wondering if I could change his food? He seems to shed alot, and his skin is pretty dry. but hes still pretty active and happy. Any information is helpful.

Thanks.

Answer
Hi Kris,

You are facing a very common dilemma here. your dog has a nutritionally responsive conidtion and requires a specialized diet; sadly the only ones available that help the condition also contain low quality ingredients. So you have control of the problem but poor level overall nutrition. And trust me, I feel for this dilemma. Although I and my colleague Monica Segal both formulate specialized diets for dogs like this, there are not many with the knowledge to do so, and to be fair, we have to charge for our work so not every owner decided to go that far with diet. Aside from expense, there is the time and energy involved. A home made diet formulated to specifications ideal for your dog, is the best way to go. Failing that I would have to say stick to the prescription diet.   You might add some quality salmon body oil for the coat and see if it helps; I am reticent to make more suggestions in this case since he has had a serious condition, requiring surgery.

If a home made programme does interest you, please refer to my website at www.the possiblecanine.com and check Services. I'd be happy to discuss this with you if you feel this is an option for you. I just can't hand out generic recipes as there is too much work involved, and my philosophy is that the whole dog needs to be considered, not simply the one condition.

I'm sorry I can't be of more help, but ask your vet about the salmon oil at least. I wish Hill's would improve their ingredient quality, really I do.

All the best, Catherine