Kidney Failure in Dogs

Kidney failure in dogs is a common and serious condition that can affect many dogs. It is probably one of the leading causes of death in older dogs. There are two forms in which kidney failure can manifest itself, acute or chronic. The acute form can happen quickly and suddenly, while the chronic form begins slowly and progresses over time. Sadly for the dog owner, news of either form of kidney failure is upsetting.

Kidney failure causes a loss of approximately seventy percent of normal kidney function and it is these organs that act as the body's filtration system. If the kidneys do not work properly, toxins and waste products slowly build up in the blood. This can lead to a variety of problems, and sadly, eventual death. This unfortunately is the harsh reality of canine renal failure.

Dog kidney failure stops the ability of your dog's body to function properly. Toxins begin to build up in his body, and once this starts, a number of symptoms and warning signs will more than likely become apparent. Each form of kidney failure shows different symptoms - with the acute form your dog will possibly have become dehydrated. To test for hydration, gently pull on the skin of your dog's stomach. This should spring back. If it does not, there may be a possibility that your dog is dehydrated.

You may have noticed your dog not wanting to pass urine, or there may be no urine production at all. This is also is a warning sign that your pet may be a victim of acute canine kidney failure. Kidney problems in dogs can lead to your dog having extremely painful kidneys, and you may notice your dog moving with stiff legs or an arched back. These symptoms are signs for any dog owner to watch out for.

Chronic kidney disease in dogs shows different symptoms. They may well have a change of appetite with no desire to eat where normally they would happily gulp down their food. They may perhaps go off their food altogether. This will, over time, lead to weight loss. The first warning signs which highlight the start of the disease are increased thirst and water consumption. These are frequent signs of kidney failure in dogs. Sadly the dog may lose control of its bladder with frequent increased urination occurring. As time goes on urination will become painful, in some cases impossible and blood may appear in the urine.

Canine kidney disease is serious, and can be deadly, so if there are any signs of urine symptoms, vomiting, lethargy or depression in your pet, treat this as a warning sign and alert your vet straight away. If caught quickly it may be possible to gain control over the disease.

If your veterinarian suspects dog kidney failure, he will normally follow four steps to determine if the dog has kidney failure or not.

First, he will conduct a thorough physical examination. Secondly he will ask you about your dog's relevant history, including symptoms and behavior at home.

After completing the examination and history taking, your vet will conduct two further steps - a blood test and urinary test. Both of these are necessary as to conduct one without the other will give a less certain diagnosis. Both of these tests will confirm whether your dog has the acute form of canine renal failure, or chronic canine kidney disease.

If so, make sure you have sufficient knowledge to discuss ALL options with your vet.

Your dog’s body is full of intricate inner workings that enable the body to heal itself from within, given the correct nutrients and care. Pharmaceutical drugs in the long run add more toxins to the body that can debilitate the body even more, further compromising the healing process. Pharmaceutical drugs may help your dog live a short time longer, but for many dog owners that’s just not enough.

Pure drinking water, plant based vitamins and minerals, specific herbs to cleanse the blood, strengthen the immune system and repair the liver, hydrotherapy, and exercise can all play a part in repairing your dog's kidneys naturally.

You should always consult your vet before embarking on a natural treatment program, but there are natural means of reversing kidney failure in your dog that have been known to produce results even when a veterinarian has recommended euthanasia as the only option.

For more information on natural treatments for kidney failure in dogs, click here.