Kidney failure is a difficult diagnosis for any dog owner to cope with. However, many dogs can benefit from adding herbal supplements to their diets. As the kidneys fail it can become more difficult for a dog to urinate, and many also develop circulation problems. Several herbs have healing properties known to improve circulation and ease urination through diuretic properties. Prior to beginning any course of homeopathic medicine, it is best to consult with a homeopathic veterinarian to ensure your dog is getting the best possible care.
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Blood Circulation Herbs
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According to the Natural Dog Home Remedies website, many dogs benefit from a treatment that includes herbs to improve blood circulation. Some recommended herbs include ginkgo and hawthorn. Ginkgo helps dilate the blood vessels and may help blood pass more easily through the kidney's blood vessels. Hawthorn also helps improve circulation.
Diuretic Herbs
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As the kidneys become stressed, many dogs have trouble passing urine. Herbs with diuretic properties may help improve a dog's ability to urinate without difficulty according to the Natural Dog Home Remedies website. Effective diuretics include dandelion, alfalfa and nettles. Dandelion may also help balance fluid levels for a dog and provides many vitamins, according to the Dog Health Guide website.
Natural Supplements
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In addition to herbal therapies, many dogs with kidney failure benefit from fish oil and Vitamin E therapy. According to the Happy Healthy Dogs website, the Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil works alongside Vitamin E to effectively treat swelling associated with kidney failure. The anti-inflammatory properties of these two products increase when they are used together. B-complex vitamins and Vitamin C provide important nutrients that may be lost because a dog's kidneys are unable to extract them properly from food.
Herbal Supplement Brands
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The Dog Health Guide recommends the Pet Alive Kidney Support brand of herbal supplement for easing the symptoms of canine kidney failure. The Happy Healthy Dogs website recommends Renagan by Thorne Research, Renal Essentials for Dogs and Only Natural Pet Kidney/Urinary Support as brands of effective herbal supplements for dogs with kidney failure. Both websites encourage dog owners to consult with their veterinarians prior to beginning any type of herbal supplement treatment.
Other Soothing Herbs
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Herbs like marshmallow, couchgrass and corn silk have anti-inflammatory properties that may help ease swelling and pain associated with canine kidney failure, according to the Natural Dog Home Remedies website. The Dog Health Guide recommends burdock for digestion and blood sugar regulation. The site also states that cleavers is an effective lymphatic cleanser.
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