End-Stage Canine Kidney Disease
The kidneys are the main organs within the urinary tract. One of their functions is to filter out waste and toxins from the body. When end-stage, or Stage IV, kidney disease occurs, it means that the kidneys are failing to function properly.
-
Identification
-
In canines, kidney disease is usually diagnosed during Stages III or IV, as these are the stages where dogs begin to show symptoms. Stage IV, or end-stage kidney disease, may also be referred to as chronic kidney failure.
Symptoms
-
Symptoms of canine kidney disease include increased water intake and urine output, weight loss, vomiting, lethargy and diarrhea. Clinical signs of Stage IV disease include lesions within the kidneys.
-
Diagnosis
-
Dogs affected by any type of potential kidney disease will undergo a physical exam, X-rays or an ultrasound, a blood chemistry panel, complete blood count and a urinalysis.
Treatment
-
Treating chronic kidney failure typically involves fluid therapy and a change in diet or nutritional supplements, such as vitamins or fatty acids. Veterinarians in some regions may also offer canine kidney transplants.
Prognosis
-
While chronic renal failure may seem like a death sentence, the life span can vary from a few weeks to several years---depending on how the dog responds to treatment.
-
References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Frédéric DUPONT
