Canine kidney failure (CIN) is a common problem in aging dogs.
Dogs that suffer canine kidney failure (CIN) are no longer able to expel harmful waste products from their blood. Also, they cease being able to balance the fluids in their bodies. Just as it is in humans, kidney failure in canines is spoken of in terms of acute--sudden, generally from poisoning--or chronic--occurring over a long period. It's not uncommon for aging pets to succumb eventually to chronic kidney disease.
Function
The kidneys' main purpose is to filter and expel toxins from the bloodstream via the urine. Excessive thirst and urination can be early indicators of failing kidneys. Kidneys that somehow suffer damage are less able to concentrate the urine; therefore, more fluid must then be used by the body to get the job done. Over time, as the kidneys' functioning worsens and the disease progresses, symptoms of chronic renal failure (CRF) arise. These include constipation, diminished appetite, fatigue, nausea and weight loss.
Diagnosis
Unfortunately, a majority of dogs show no sign of kidney failure until about 75 percent of the animal's kidney function has been compromised. A good veterinarian will seek to determine the extent of the disease. This is done first by way of blood and urine testing. According to Go Pets America, chronic kidney failure is known to target specific breeds. The particularly vulnerable ones are the cocker spaniel, Doberman pinscher, standard poodle, Shih Tzu, Lhasa apso and Shar-Pei.
Progression of the Disease
As the dog's kidneys begin to shut down, the animal will very nearly cease to produce urine. The dog will turn down water and become completely inactive. He will be very lethargic. Vomiting and diarrhea may also be in evidence. If this happens, the dog should be taken to a veterinarian immediately.
Causes
Toxins, prescription medications, kidney tumors and stones, parasites, viral infections, infectious substances and bacteria are among the main culprits behind kidney failure in dogs. One of the most serious toxins to your pet is antifreeze. Dogs can absorb antifreeze through the pads of their feet merely by walking on an antifreeze-treated driveway. But it's most deadly when lapped up by an animal. If treatment--induced vomiting or flushing of the stomach--isn't administered within one to two hours, the dog will die. Kidney failure will progress with great speed.
Treatment
Intravenous fluid therapy or peritoneal dialysis are the treatments of choice for acute kidney failure. These remedies rid the blood of uremic poisons. Antibiotics are sometimes used if infections are present, and antidotes for poisoning are the order of the day if toxins are suspected. In some instances, blockages can cause kidney failure, in which case these are surgically removed. Dialysis is a complicated treatment modality in dogs. It buys time and extends life but it is not generally recommended. Chronic kidney failure in older dogs can be treated, if caught early, with diet and supplements, but these measures will serve merely to delay the inevitable.
