Kidney failure, also called renal failure, is most common in geriatric dogs, though it can also occur in younger animals. There are both acute and gradual on set forms of the disease, but gradual onset forms are most common
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Definition
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Kidney failure is the inability of kidneys to cleanse the blood, resulting in uremic poisoning. According to WebMD, symptoms of uremic poisoning do not appear until at least three-quarters of the kidney tissue is destroyed.
Symptoms
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Early signs that your dog is entering renal failure include an increased urge to go outside, due to over-frequent urination; this is often accompanied by dehydration and increased thirst. After uremic poisoning develops, symptoms may include depression, loss of appetite, weight loss, decreased urination, ulcers, ascites, edema, vomiting, diarrhea and gastrointestinal bleeding.
Causes
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According to the Dog Health Guide, common causes of renal failure include urinary tract obstructions, kidney stones, a rupture of the urinary system, inadequate blood flow to the kidneys, congestive heart failure, poisoning, especially from antifreeze, Lyme disease and Leptospirosis,.
Treatment
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According to WebMD, most veterinarians will first alter a dog's diet to try and control the rate at which the kidneys decline and to offset the resulting side effects. As a dog's kidney function deteriorates, it may require dialysis and kidney replacement in order to survive.
Other Cause of GI Bleeding
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According to the Merck Veterinary manual, GI bleeding can be caused by any of the following: parvovirus, coronavirus, Campylobacter, Salmonella, Clostridium, Escherichia coli, leptospirosis, whipworms, hookworms, coccidiosis, giardiasis, ulceration, colitis or hemorrhagic gastroenteritis. Positive diagnosis can only be made by a certified medical professional.
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