Holistic Treatments for Kidney Disease in a Canine

Deteriorating of the kidneys is something that happens normally in all dogs as they get older. Elderly canines can die from kidney disease and kidney failure. Their death can be postponed if the symptoms are caught early and treatment is started immediately. According to "Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide To Natural Health For Dogs &Cats" early signs of kidney disease include increased thirst, frequent urination, low energy and lack of appetite.

  1. Herbal Therapy

    • Dogs can benefit from holistic treatment.

      Herbs that help with a holistic treatment of kidney disease include alfalfa and marshmallow. A tincture of alfalfa, which can be purchased at a health or whole foods store, should be given to the dog three times a day. One to two drops are recommended for small dogs, two to four for medium dogs and four to six for larger breeds. A steeped infusion of marsh mallow leaves or flowers, boiled in water and then strained, should be given to the dog once a day. It can be mixed with their food. the book suggests a 1/2 teaspoon for small dogs, 1 teaspoon for medium-sized dogs and 1 tablespoon for large breeds.

    Nutrition Therapy

    • Canine nutrition is essential to a dog's health.

      A low-protein, low-phosphorous and low-sodium diet is recommended by the Healthy Pet Journal, which says that this type of diet can help slow the progression of kidney disease. Dr. Pitcairn's guide recommends reducing the amount of metabolic waste that enters the kidneys, which means reducing the three items already stated. Feed them no more than 16 percent protein in their diet when treating for kidney disease. This is important to know since most canine diets rely greatly on protein content.

    Other Therapies

    • Smoking affects a dog's health, too.

      Other holistic forms of therapy are helpful for canines suffering from kidney disease. Use only filtered or bottled water for the dog's drinking water. Excess chlorine in city water is harmful to their already deteriorating kidneys. Stop smoking around them. Avoid excess chemicals by using green animal care and household products.

    Crisis Therapy

    • At home treatment of a canine with sever kidney therapy is not highly recommended, as they will need fluids through an IV that only a veterinarian can provide. But if they are being kept at home, parsley and barley are recommended treatments. A parsley tea can be brewed with a tablespoon of fresh parsley in a cup of water. Once it cools, feed them 1 to 2 tablespoons of the tea up to three times a day. Make the dog barley water by pouring 3 cups of boiling water over fresh barley. Let it steep overnight and then strain. Feed them up to two cups twice a day.