Dogs’ bodies work quite similarly to human bodies, despite being a distinct species. Just like in humans, the kidneys perform numerous vital functions when they are in optimal condition. They control blood pressure, blood acidity, prevent water loss, and uphold a generally healthy metabolic balance. They also remove toxins from the blood and eliminate them from the body through urine. Kidney or renal disease is any disorder that prevents the kidneys from functioning normally, and its severity can vary widely.
Renal function declines gradually for a variety of reasons, and once it occurs, there is no turning back the harm. Toxins and unfiltered waste products accumulate in the circulation as a result, causing widespread nausea and malaise. The standard of living of a dog declines when it is neglected or mistreated. For the disease to be managed and your dog’s comfort and wellbeing to be preserved, early identification and management are essential.
Common Causes of Canine Chronic Kidney Disease
Numerous factors can contribute to kidney disease, such as infection, trauma, genetics, medications, toxins, cancer, mechanical obstructions, and degenerative diseases. Kidney failure can result from anything that reduces blood supply to the kidneys, such as heat stroke or dehydration.
Exposure to dangerous items, such as toxic plants like lilies, certain medicines, harmful foods like grapes or raisins, or antifreeze, can result in acute kidney disease in dogs. You can prevent your canine buddy from getting into dangerous objects or possibly hazardous foods by puppy-proofing your house and yard. On the other hand, aging is linked to chronic renal disease in dogs. The kidneys can deteriorate over time because damaged renal tissue cannot heal itself. Early symptoms of kidney disease usually appear in little dogs between the ages of 10 and fourteen. The lifespan of large dogs is shortened, and kidney failure can occur as early as age seven.
Dog breeds that are commonly prone to CKD include: Boxers, Bull Terriers, Shar-Pei, and West Highland White Terrier.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Canine renal disease initially manifests as increased thirst and urine. Until around ⅔ of the kidney tissue is gone, further symptoms typically don’t show up. Therefore, before an owner becomes aware of the damage in CKD, it may have started months or even years ago. Consequently, it is very uncommon for dogs to exhibit seemingly sudden symptoms of kidney illness, even when the kidneys have been failing for a considerable amount of time. Lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and extremely terrible breath are some of the clinical indicators of more advanced renal failure. At times, oral ulcers are noticed.
It is urgent that fur buddies with these serious symptoms see a veterinarian!
A blood chemistry analysis and a urinalysis are the two important diagnostics for kidney function. To assess kidney function, urinalysis is requested, wherein the first sign of kidney failure is a low urine specific gravity. Decreased kidney function is also indicated by an increase in protein in the urine, or proteinuria. The blood chemistry evaluates the performance of several bodily organs. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and blood creatinine (CREA), two waste products, can be measured to determine whether kidney function has declined. A dog is considered azotemic if its urine specific gravity is low and its BUN and CREA levels are elevated. Assessing the blood levels of various components like albumin, globulin, potassium, sodium, phosphorus, and calcium, together with the counts of red and white blood cells, is crucial for determining the severity of the condition and the most effective treatment plan.
Management of Canine CKD
Since irreversible damage has already been done by the time a dog exhibits symptoms, chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a treatable but irreversible disease. Treatment usually consists of renal flushing and removal of the blood’s stored toxins, followed by managing the illness and slowing its progression.
Fluid treatment is crucial. Drinking fluids will replenish your loyal companion’s hydration and flush out harmful waste products that their kidneys should be eliminating on a regular basis. They can be administered subcutaneously–beneath the skin– at home or intravenously at a hospital. This flushing procedure, known as diuresis, aids in the restoration of slightly injured kidney cells by using high doses of intravenous fluid.
Ensure that your canine pal always has access to clean, fresh water in several bowls throughout the house. Their meal can also have water added to it.
One of the most important components of a successful treatment plan for dogs with chronic renal failure is nutrition. For a dog in the advanced stages of kidney failure, there is a special diet, which is a diet low in phosphorus, low in protein, and not acidic. This diet helps lower the quantity of metabolic toxins or protein wastes that could make your pet feel ill and tired. Reduced protein intake in the diet will also lessen the strain on the kidneys in advanced renal disease.
A veterinarian may suggest renal dialysis to improve your dog’s life if all other treatment options have been tried. Similar to what happens to humans, a machine draws blood from the dog, cleans it, and then pumps it back into the body.
Home Care and Support
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a severe, lifelong illness that needs constant attention and observation as new symptoms appear. More tests and veterinarian visits are necessary for dogs with CKD than for other dogs, and as symptoms fluctuate during the disease, quality of life should be evaluated. Many of the prescriptions may be needed for life, so make sure to follow your veterinarian’s checkup requirements and follow the recommended diet and drug regimen!
