Kidney disease in dogs: how to avoid it

Le kidney disease These are the most common pathologies in dogs and lead to a significant decline in quality of life, even leading to early death. The various pathologies are divided into two categories: acute and chronicIn the first case, the kidneys suddenly stop functioning due to infection, toxins, or trauma; in the second case, however, the kidneys are damaged and gradually lose their ability to filter blood properly. Chronic kidney disease is irreversible, but can be effectively managed with early diagnosis.

Cause

A distinction must be made between the two types of kidney disease.

In the case ofacute renal failure, the most common causes are:

• Ingestion of toxic substances, which can come from a food, a plant or a drug. 
• Bacterial infections among which first of all leptospirosis, which among the damages caused also includes renal failure
• Systemic diseases, such as severe pancreatitis or heart failure
• Urinary obstruction, due to urinary crystals or stones

In the case of chronic kidney disease, the main causes are:

• The age dog advance
• Inflammation of the renal glomeruli
• Infections chronic kidney disease
• Kidney disease of hereditary origin
• The breed: those most exposed to kidney problems are the Cocker spaniel, Doberman pinscher, Bull Terrier and Basenjic 

Symptoms

The symptoms of kidney problems in dogs are very obvious:

• Increase or decrease in urination
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Threw up
• Diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Weight loss
• Lethargy
• Bad breath
• Pale gums
• Loss of orientation

Diagnosis

Diagnosis should always be made by a veterinarian, and if it is done early, the chances of recovery are very high. The vet may prescribe an ultrasound (which may need to be repeated over time) and specific blood and urine tests. 

Treatments

Treatments also vary depending on the type of kidney disease. For the acute form, the veterinarian may prescribe fluid therapy to rebalance dehydration, as well as medications to manage the symptoms of the disease. For the chronic form, medications to control blood pressure, fluids for hydration, and, above all, a low-protein diet may be necessary. Medications include ACE inhibitors, medications to control phosphorus and acidity, medications for anemia, and diuretics. All are prescribed by the veterinarian and cannot be given to the dog at home. 

Most common kidney diseases for each breed

This table lists the most common kidney diseases in dogs, also classified by breed. 

Prevention

Kidney disease in dogs can be prevented primarily with a healthy, balanced diet and physical activity. Through exercise, dogs maintain good blood circulation, which facilitates the functioning of all their organs. Furthermore, they avoid becoming overweight, a condition that increases the risk of kidney disease. In addition to healthy eating (with portions never excessive), to protect the dog from kidney disease it is necessary to ensure that it is well hydrated, drinking often and in significant quantities. 

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• Dog Vaccinations: Which Are Essential?
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