Treatments for Canine Kidney Failure 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.
It is estimated that more than half of pets suffering from acute kidney failure either die from the condition or are euthanized to prevent suffering. That said, if caught early and treated aggressively some dogs are able to recover from acute kidney failure.
The life expectancy for a dog with kidney failure can vary depending on the severity of the condition and how quickly it was diagnosed and how your dog responds to the initial treatment. With proper management and treatment, some dogs can live for several months to a few years after diagnosis.
Each case should be treated aggressively and monitored closely. Even dogs that have severe kidney failure may respond favorably to treatment and resume a normal quality of life after treatment.
Cost of Dialysis and Renal Replacement Therapy in Dogs
The average price of dialysis and CRRT, for the first two to three treatments, ranges from $3,000 to $4,500. Subsequent treatments typically cost $600 to $700 each. This price may not include the cost of hospitalization.
Treatment for kidney disease often includes a number of dietary changes or restrictions, combined with medications. While medications are used primarily to reduce symptoms of the disease, a therapeutic diet will help slow the progression of disease and help to reduce the work your dog's kidneys need to perform.
Acute renal (i.e., kidney) failure can impact many of your dog's normal internal functions, and become life-threatening without prompt and aggressive treatment.
Signs of acute kidney failure in dogs will appear quickly, typically within a couple of hours or days of ingesting the toxin. If your dog is suffering from acute kidney failure you may notice one or more of the following symptoms: Increase or decrease in water consumption. Increase or decrease in volume of urine.
A special diet - Nutrition is one of the cornerstones in the effective treatment of dogs with chronic kidney failure. The ideal diet for a dog in the advanced stages of kidney failure is lower in protein, low in phosphorus, and is not acidified.
For dogs with renal health issues, feed them a diet of high-quality protein with low phosphorus and sodium, and added omega-3 fatty acids, such as a mix of good quality meat, veggies like bell peppers, and either a supplement of omega-3's or fish, flax, sardines, or anchovies.
Common Causes of Kidney Disease in Dogs
One is acute, or sudden, which usually occurs after a pet ingests a toxin like antifreeze or certain prescription medications. Other causes of acute renal failure include severe urinary tract infections and decreased blood and oxygen flow to the kidneys.
Breed: Some dog breeds, including English Cocker spaniels, bull terriers and German shepherds, are more likely to develop particular types of kidney disease. Learn more about a very special German shepherd named Buddy that was diagnosed with kidney failure.
Acute kidney disease in dogs can be caused by exposure to hazardous materials, including toxic plants such as lilies, certain drugs, harmful foods such as grapes or raisins, or antifreeze.
If the vet determines your dog has acute kidney failure (or acute-on-chronic kidney disease where existing kidney disease suddenly worsens), it is common for your pup to require hospitalization. During that time, your dog may receive intravenous (IV) fluids, intensive care, and round-the-clock monitoring.
Summary of Kidney Failure in Dogs
Acute kidney failure happens suddenly, and if caught and treated quickly, can be reversed. While there is no cure for chronic kidney failure, symptoms can be minimized with fluid therapy and diet changes.
Is Dog Kidney Failure Painful? Kidney failure usually comes with a lot of pain. Most times we can see the signs; from the tremors to the vomiting and the loss of appetite. It is important that you prioritize your dogs' comfort.
Stage I: Usually, there'll be no signs of kidney disease, and dogs will continue to act normal. If you bring them to the vet's office, their blood work can appear regular, too. Ask your veterinarian about testing your pup's symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) levels, which can indicate kidney disease.
An accurate diagnosis should include both clinical symptoms and laboratory findings. Animals are sometimes misdiagnosed with kidney disease based solely on laboratory findings rather than assessing the clinical symptoms in relation to the blood results.
Avoid products that are high in phosphorus and salt. Prescribing medications to reduce nausea, stomach inflammation, ulcers, or other symptoms that may be reducing your dog's appetite. Recommending a different prescription kidney diet or, if necessary, a suitable over-the-counter food.
For example, diets for kidney disease must be lower in phosphorus. White rice, and especially the glutinous variety is extremely low in this mineral (and a great source of manganese) which allows some diets to include small amounts of other foods which would be impossible otherwise.
For dogs with kidney failure, this protein should be fed in moderation and with care as the yolk has high amounts of phosphorus. Unless your vet tells you that an occasional egg is okay to feed your dog, it is best to avoid giving eggs to dogs with kidney disease, to be on the safe side.
Tuna canned in springwater can be a good addition to renal diets. It is low in phosphorus, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and has a strong flavour, which can be used to increase the appeal of the carbohydrate component of the diet.
Some of the best foods for dogs with kidney disease are brown rice and lean protein sources. Remember that dogs with renal disease need less protein, phosphorus, and sodium than their healthy counterparts. As such, always opt for lean protein, and don't go overboard.