If your dog suffers from kidney failure, you can prolong its life and minimize its suffering if you adjust the ways in which you feed and care for it. Kidney failure occurs when the kidneys shut down and become incapable of creating urine on their own, forcing the dog's blood flow to work overtime on these vital organs. Kidney failure can impact any dog, but certain breeds like the cocker spaniel, shih tzu and golden retriever are believed to be especially susceptible.
Things You'll Need
- Low-protein dog food
Instructions
Speak to your veterinarian about prescription supplements and home treatments that may benefit your ailing dog. For instance, some dogs with kidney failure can benefit from subcutaneous fluid administration (a basic kidney flushing process), according to Pawprints and Purrs, Inc., but only your vet can tell you the right options for your dog.
Place your dog on a low-protein diet. Commercial brands include Flint River Ranch Senior, Purina Veterinary Diet and Eukanuba Veterinary Diet. Speak to your veterinarian about obtaining one of these unique dog food brands.
Monitor your dog's eating habits carefully. Many dogs with kidney failure will suffer from loss of appetite and may try to stop eating completely in some cases. If you notice your dog neglecting its food, encourage it to eat by sitting at its side during meal time and spoon-feeding if necessary.
Ensure that your dog always has an ample supply of water. Never let the water bowl run dry, as dogs with kidney failure require a tremendous amount of fluid.
Walk your dog frequently or make sure that it always has access to a yard or other location for relieving herself. A dog with kidney failure will need to urinate constantly, so you can no longer rely on simply walking it twice a day. Your dog must always have the ability to go when it needs to go, so keep an eye on it and look for the common signs, such as sniffing the carpet, lifting the leg, gazing outdoors or walking in a small circle.
Provide your dog with plenty of love and affection. Dogs with kidney failure will often suffer from depression, according to Pet Place, so you must give your dog the additional attention that it needs in order to keep its spirits high.