Our team at Animal Health Services in Columbus knows how frightening it can be when your dog is diagnosed with kidney failure. Just the mere thought of your best friend having this disease can send you into sheer panic. Thankfully, we are here to help you navigate through this stressful time. Let’s learn more about kidney failure in dogs and what you can do to help your pooch.

The Symptoms of Kidney Failure in Dogs

Kidney failure is one of the leading causes of death in pets, but there are things you can do to help prolong your dog's life. This will, however, require early diagnosis, which means you will need to recognize the symptoms associated with kidney failure. The most common early signs of kidney failure include:

• Excessive thirst
• High volume of urine

Advanced Symptoms

If your dog is experiencing either one of those symptoms, it is recommended to make an appointment with its veterinarian as soon as possible. As kidney failure progresses, your dog may experience the following symptoms:

• Blood in urine
• Pale gums
• Lethargy
• Weight loss
• Mouth ulcers
• Decrease in appetite
• Stumbling or uncoordinated movements
• Seizures

Once these symptoms begin to appear, the survival rate decreases. The average survival rate for stage 4 kidney disease is 14 to 80 days.

What Causes Kidney Failure in Dogs?

Several things can cause kidney failure in dogs. In fact, anything that will reduce the blood flowing through your dog's kidney can result in kidney failure. Kidney disease, however, is the leading cause of kidney failure. Other potential causes include dehydration due to severe diarrhea or vomiting, ingesting toxic substances, and heatstroke.

Treatment Options for Kidney Failure in Dogs

The treatment options vary depending on the type of kidney failure your dog is experiencing, as well as what is causing the issue. Acute kidney failure is, unfortunately, fatal and treatment options are merely easing the symptoms. Chronic kidney failure can be treated, but there is no cure for it. Treatment options for chronic kidney failure include diet changes, medication, and fluid therapy.

Contact Our Veterinarian in Columbus, MS

Preventive exams are vital for the overall health of your dog and they can even spot kidney failure before it reaches the late stages. These preventive exams also help your veterinarian create a health plan designed to keep kidney failure at bay. Call Animal Health Services today at (662) 328-2821 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.