Dogs who have Acute Renal Failure will be lethargic and seem depressed, with a lack of appetite. This is a disease in which a dog’s kidneys are so severely affected that they suddenly stop functioning. As a result, there are many changes that occur within a dog’s body chemistry, such as alterations in fluid and mineral balances, which affect nearly every other system within the dog’s body.
Since there is such a rapid decrease in kidney function, the physical symptoms that present themselves are usually more intense with Acute Renal Failure.
How The Kidneys Work
A dog’s kidneys are used to filter its blood so that it can remove any and all waste, which is a product of metabolism, and then eliminates them through the urine. Another function of the kidneys is to regulate both the composition of the fluids inside the dog’s body, such mineral concentrations and acid base balance, and the volume of such fluids as well. The kidneys also help to create hormones that are used to stimulate the making of red blood cells, as well as to regulate calcium balance.
Causes
Whilst no specific breed of dog is more prone to having Acute Renal Failure, senior dogs are somewhat more susceptible. This is thought to be due to the natural aging process of older dogs.
Causes of Acute Renal Failure are diverse:
- Obstruction of the kidneys
- A ruptured bladder that prevents proper elimination of urine
- Blockage of the dog’s urinary tract from a kidney stone
- A decrease in the amount of oxygen that is delivered to the kidneys via the blood
- Shock or heat stroke that can lead to inadequate blood flow to the kidneys
- An infection
- Medications, such as anti-cancer drugs, antibiotics, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen
- Poisoning by ingesting harmful toxins, especially ethylene glycol
It is interesting to note that Acute Renal Failure occurs more commonly during the colder months because dogs are more readily exposed to anti-freeze, which contains ethylene glycol. Therefore, working dogs, such as service dogs, and unsupervised dogs, have an increased risk of developing Acute Renal Failure.
No matter what the cause, there is a sudden disruption of the renal system, and this is what leads to quick kidney failure.
Treatment
Because kidney failure is so sudden with Acute Renal Failure, it is imperative that you take your dog to a veterinarian as soon as you notice any symptoms. Unfortunately, these symptoms are not very specific and can often be misunderstood as a different illness or disease. Therefore it is very important to discuss any and all symptoms and changes in your dog’s behavior with your veterinarian.
A great treatment to give to your dog at home, in conjunction with your vet’s treatments, is a herbal supplement called Tripsy, which was formulated by a leading naturopathic veterinarian. Made up of strong herbs, Tripsy helps to improve the kidneys by fighting any kidney infection. Tripsy also works to improve your dog’s urinary flow and discomfort.
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