Dog Multi-Vitamins for Kidney Disease

For the senior dog, kidney disease is a problem. Although it can develop at any age, the older dog is more susceptible to the disease. The kidney's main function is the production of urine. Secondary functions include the regulating the body's electrolytes, blood pressure and acid base balance. Re-absorption of glucose and amino acids are also a responsibility of the kidneys. Vitamin D, erythropoietin and rennin are also produced by the kidneys. Although kidney disease is not reversible the owner of the canine can help to control the disease with the care of the pet's veterinarian and diet, including supplements.

Causes and symptoms of kidney disease in the canine:

Causes of kidney disease can vary. Melamine contaminated pet food is one cause of Acute Renal Failure, as well as, ingestion of toxins such as antifreeze, age, cancer, hypertension and immune diseases.

Symptoms of kidney disease include excessive thirst, reduction in urinating, blood in urine and not eating.

The kidneys are responsible for filtering out and excreting toxins from the body via the urine. The kidneys, when healthy, have a large reserve of water which helps to concentrate toxins into smaller liquid form and are urinated out. With damaged kidney's, they are not as capable of concentrating the urine. Dogs are losing water in the urine and must drink more water, thus urinating more.

Symptoms that the canine is losing kidney functions:

Symptoms that the canine is losing kidney functions include weight loss, nausea, constipation, low energy, fatigue, and poor appetite.

If you are noticing any of these symptoms in your dog, a trip to your veterinarian should be scheduled immediately. A blood test and urinalysis will be necessary to properly diagnose the condition.
Treatments for kidney disease in the canine:

Kidney damage is irreversible because kidney cells are lost and because of replacement by scar tissue. The disease can be slowed but cannot be stopped.

Treatments for kidney disease in the canine:

Canine treatments for kidney disease include diet, blood transfusions, medications and therapies prescribed by your veterinarian, supplements, acupuncture, Chinese herbs and holistic veterinary care.

Mutivitamins for canine kidney disease

For the canine with kidney disease proper diet and additional supplements are necessary.
The canine should be given a multivitamin supplement which contains Vitamin C and B complex which will replace the vitamins and minerals that are depleted due to the canine's condition. The B vitamins are helpful to reduce stress in the canine and replace water soluble vitamins that are lost in the urine.

Omega-3 fatty acids with vitamin E have shown to decrease kidney inflammation and slow renal failure progression.

Antioxidants such as vitamin E and vitamin C are important, as well as potassium supplements.
Finding the right multivitamin for the canine with kidney disease:

When looking for the best multivitamin for your canine, look for a multivitamin that contains the Vitamin B complex, Vitamin C, Omega 3 fatty acids, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Folic Acid, Vitamin D, Calcium, and Iron.

Conclusion:

For the canine suffering from kidney disease proper veterinary care is necessary. Depending on the severity of the disease will influence the treatments and therapies.

There are many holistic treatments such as additional vitamins and minerals as well as herbal therapies and acupuncture.

Although the disease is not correctable you can prolong the life of your pet through proper care, medications, therapies and diet.

References

• OnlyNaturalPet.com; Kidney Disease in Cats and Dogs
• WellVet.com; Guide to Diseases, Herbs, Nutraceuticals and Animal Care