How to Cure a Canine's Kidney Disease

There is no permanent cure for canine acute renal failure.

Canine kidney disease, also known as acute renal failure (ARF) is a deadly disease that affects many dogs. This canine affliction affects the working ability of the dog's kidneys until ultimately the kidneys cease to function on their own. Acute renal failure affects dogs of all ages but is most commonly found in elderly dogs. While there is no permanent cure for canine kidney disease, there are a number of methods and treatments that can help dog owners minimize discomfort for their pet and delay the progression of the condition, ultimately prolonging the dog's life.

Things You'll Need

• Low sodium dog food
• Low protein dog food
• Omega 3 fish oil
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin B complex
• Water dish

Instructions

Treating Canine Kidney Disease

1. 

   Clean drinking water is essential for dog hydration.

   Keep the dog well hydrated. Dehydration is a common concern when treating dogs with ARF. To prevent dehydration be sure to keep a constant supply of fresh, clean water for your dog to drink. Allowing a bathtub faucet to slowly run is one way to ensure that he will have access to enough clean water in your absence.

2. 

   Changes in the dog's diet may be required

   Adjust your dog's diet. Changing your dog's eating habits can help to slow the progression of canine kidney disease. Many veterinarians will recommend a low protein or low sodium diet that will aid in keeping the dog's kidneys functional for a longer time. Specific guidelines for a healthy diet vary from dog to dog. Consult with a veterinarian regarding what type of alterations to your dog's diet will be most effective in treating the condition.

3. 

   Fish oil supplements may help canine kidney disease.

   Provide nutritional supplements for your dog. Because weakened kidneys in canines are often unable to retain or recycle essential vitamins that are crucial to a dog's health, nutritional supplements are recommended to ensure that he is receiving enough vitamins and minerals to keep his body functioning properly. Omega 3 fatty acids found in fish oil are known to slow the progression of kidney disease in dogs and vitamins E, B, and C are also recommended by veterinarians.

4. 

   Holistic herbal therapies may aid in pH balance.

   Incorporate natural herbal remedies into your dog's treatment. According to holistically trained veterinarians, the use of Chinese and western herbal remedies may slow the progression of canine kidney failure if holistic treatment is begun in the earliest stages of the disease. There are natural holistic remedies available for dogs that contain amino acids, minerals, herbs, and vitamins that aid in reducing the pH in the animal's urine and maintaining optimal function of her kidneys.

5. 

   Stres reduction is an essential part of treatment.

   Reduce your dog's stress level. Veterinarians agree that increased stress can weaken an animal's immune system, making it harder to fight off infections or maintain sufficient strength in his internal organs. Keeping your dog relaxed and free of stress can be of significant help when treating him for canine kidney disease. Allow your ailing pet a secluded area free of unruly children, bothersome animals, or any other pests that may increase his stress levels or prevent him from resting.

Tips & Warnings

• Always consult with a veterinarian before attempting to treat a dog for canine kidney failure.

• Do not ignore the symptoms of canine kidney disease or failure. Symptoms may include diarrhea, increased thirst, dehydration, frequent urination, diluted urine, discolored teeth, foul breath, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and shivering. Canine kidney disease can decrease the years of a dog's life and become fatal if left untreated.

References

• Veterinary Partner: Kidney Failure: Where to Begin
• Healthy Happy Dogs: Dealing with Kidney Failure in Cats and Dogs
• Pet MD: Long-term Kidney Failure in Dogs
• Vet Pro: Symptoms in Dogs with Chronic Renal Failure

Resources

• 2nd Chance: Chronic Kidney Disease And Uremia In Dogs