The treatment procedure that veterinarians prescribe for dogs suffering from renal failure vary considerably depending on a number of factors, such as the extent and severity of the condition, the dog’s age, and any other health issues that he may have.
It is important to note that not all dogs will respond the same way to a certain treatment, so don’t automatically assume that a treatment plan prescribed for your friend’s dog will work for your pet as well. This is why it is important to consult with a qualified veterinarian before embarking on any type of treatment plan. Aside from easing your pet’s symptoms a lot sooner, this will also enable your vet to suggest an appropriate course of action.
In any case, most treatment procedures for dogs suffering from renal failure involve regulating the protein and phosphorus content of the diet. Reducing your dog’s protein intake will result in decreased production of uremic toxins, and this will have the effect of easing much of your dog’s discomfort sooner. Cutting back on protein may also help extend your dog’s life span.
A number of pet owners have taken to using food supplements intended for humans with renal failure. While such medications may produce favorable effects in dogs for the short term, they have not conclusively been shown to make the disease better in the long run. In any case, it would probably be best to stick to canine medication that your vet will recommend.
Slightly more important than protein concerns is the phosphorus content of your dog’s diet. Keep in mind that excessive phosphorus can actually speed up the progression of the disease, and worsen any existing condition. At best it will slow down any progress that your dog will otherwise realize as a result of treatment. Many veterinarians recommend introducing K/D in the diet of dogs suffering from renal failure, since it has fairly low phosphorus content.
In addition to diet modification, your veterinarian may also prescribe IV treatment, in which fluids are introduced in an attempt to correct imbalances caused by excessive uremic toxins in the body. Your dog may also be prescribed Epogen, which will address the anemia issues typically associated with chronic renal failure. All of these treatment methods are undertaken with the goal of improving the quality of life of your pet as well as his longevity.
If your dog is presently suffering from renal failure, you may focus on including certain foods into his diet such as eggs, potatoes, chicken meat and fat, beef, and calcium carbonate tablets.
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My dog is not eating and is throwing up after every meal. He is going in for a iv treatment tonight. He has kidney disease and is extreemly skinny. He has drop weight over the past two weeks by aprox 15 lb. I do try to feed him KD but he does not like this. He will eat beef and chicken but we are not sure how much. He weighs approx 70lb now and he us to weigh 90lb a year ago. Any help would be great. He is 9 years old. I kept him in great health and always brought him to the Vet. His name is Auggie.
Thank you,
Keith