Kidney failure can happen suddenly, particularly in the case of a dog's ingesting toxins like antifreeze. Some dogs, usually older dogs, have kidney failure that results from a ruptured bladder or a drop in blood and oxygen flow to the kidneys.
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Kidney Failure
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Kidney failure is diagnosed when a dog's kidneys stop filtering waste out of the blood, causing chemical changes and imbalance in the body. Usually a dog will have the condition for a period of months before symptoms appear, except in the case of toxin ingestion or trauma.
Weight Loss
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If your dog starts to lose weight unexpectedly, you should contact your veterinarian. This can signal a number of conditions, though weight loss is one of the main symptoms of kidney failure.
Other Symptoms
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Other signs to watch for are a change in urination habits and water intake. Also watch for vomiting, loss of appetite and general weakness. You should contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of these symptoms, or any changes in your dog's overall behavior.
Diagnosis
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Your veterinarian will ask you to describe your dog's symptoms, and then will perform a complete exam on your dog. She will test his blood and urine for abnormal readings. If necessary, your vet may also order X-rays of the abdominal area and ultrasounds.
Treatment
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In some cases of kidney failure, the dog will require a hospital stay where he'll receive fluids and medication through an IV, and the vet will monitor the frequency and amount of urination. Medications may be helpful for some of the symptoms, though once kidney failure begins it usually does not go away. With extensive damage, some dogs need dialysis, which means that a specified number of times each week, the dog will be hooked up to a machine that will function as the kidneys do and filter waste from the blood.
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