3 Words No Dog Owner Wants To Hear - Canine Renal Failure

 

The kidneys act as the body's filters; they eliminate harmful toxins and waste from the bloodstream. Kidney failure or renal failure means the kidneys are no longer able to perform their function properly. Kidney failure is usually diagnosed by blood tests, specifically kidney function tests, and urinalysis. These tests allow veterinarians to establish how severe kidney damage is. There are two kinds of renal failure that affect dogs:

Chronic Renal Failure: Chronic Renal Failure or CRF is common in older dogs and is one of the most common causes of death in dogs. It is so common that most blood tests performed on aging dogs will show some elevation in kidney enzymes indicative of kidney disease. If caught early though, a suitable diet, supplements and fluid therapy can delay the disease and prevent kidney failure. CRF isn't necessarily a death sentence, some pets can live comfortably for many months or even years after being diagnosed.

Depending on the severity of the disease, intravenous fluid therapy may be administered at the vet's office. Sometimes it is necessary for the owner to learn how to administer subcutaneous fluids at home as it is an ongoing therapy. This is not difficult to do and can mean the difference between life and death for your dog. While there is no cure for kidney disease, supportive care is crucial in prolonging quality of life and life span in the affected pet. Vitamins and supplements may also be prescribed to combat those lost by the failing kidney function. Probiotics and phosphorous binding substances have been reported to have some success in aiding kidney function.

Signs of CRF include excessive thirst and drinking, nausea, anorexia and decreased mental acuity among others.

Acute Kidney Failure: Acute Renal Failure, or ARF, is the more life threatening form of kidney disease. This type of kidney failure can be caused by many different things such as toxins, certain drugs, kidney tumors, dehydration, kidney stones, viral infections and bacteria. A recent problem with commercial dog food resulted in acute kidney failure in which many pet owners lost their pets. Aggressive fluid therapy and dialysis is used for treating ARF. If the dog survives the treatment period, it is considered cured and usually doesn't have any residual kidney damage. Unfortunately many dogs die despite aggressive therapy.

Signs of ARF include: lethargy, dehydration, refusal to drink, vomiting and diarrhea.