Primary kidney disease, more commonly referred to as chronic renal failure, is a common problem in elderly dogs. The disease occurs when the kidneys are no longer able to remove waste from the body effectively and toxins build up in the blood.
While there is no cure for chronic renal failure, early diagnosis often allows veterinarians and pet guardians to manage the disease to give the pet a longer life and a better quality of life.
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Likely Victims
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While all breeds of dogs can be affected by chronic renal failure, some breeds are more susceptible. These include the cocker spaniel, Lhasa apso, Shih Tzu, Norwegian elkhound, Doberman pinscher, soft-coated wheaten terrier, golden retriever, bull terrier, Cairn terrier, German shepherd and Samoyed.
Symptoms
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Symptoms of primary kidney disease are increased thirst, excessive drinking, increased urination, lethargy, vomiting, bad breath, anorexia, weight loss, constipation, weakness, lack of coordination and depression. Symptoms usually aren't noticeable until the later stages of the disease, when the kidneys' function is reduced to about 25 percent of what it should be.
Physical Examination
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If your veterinarian suspects your dog may be suffering from chronic renal failure, the doctor will begin by performing a physical examination.
During the physical examination, the doctor will check to see if your dog's gums are pale. This is a symptom of anemia, which is common in dogs with kidney disease. The veterinarian also will check to see if the kidneys feel as if they are enlarged, small or irregular in shape, or if they are causing the dog pain. Ulcers in the dog's mouth also may be a visible sign of kidney disease. Halitosis is often present, caused by the build-up of toxins in the blood stream. Other signs the veterinarian will look for include dehydration, swelling of the limbs due to the accumulation of fluids, high blood pressure and changes in the retina caused by high blood pressure.
Diagnosis
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If the physical examination reveals signs that are consistent with chronic renal failure, the veterinarian will probably employ several additional diagnostic tools to reach a definite conclusion.
Diagnostic tools may include a biochemistry test, urinalysis, complete blood count, ultrasound and kidney biopsy.
Causes
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Chronic renal failure is often simply part of the aging process. However, other conditions can cause or worsen the disease. These include kidney toxins, high blood calcium, inflammation of the kidneys, kidney stones, kidney infection, chronic urinary obstruction, lymphoma and some medications.
Treatment
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There is no cure for chronic renal failure, but if the disease is caught early its progression can be slowed. The veterinarian will provide your pet with fluids if he is dehydrated. A special diet may be recommended. Your dog's urine will be monitored and if the disease has led to anemia, this will be managed.
The veterinarian might prescribe medications to prevent nausea and to balance electrolytes, minerals, hormones and high blood pressure.
In many cases, the guardians of dogs with chronic renal failure must learn to give subcutaneous fluids to their pets at home.
Dialysis is also a possible treatment, though it is very expensive. It requires the dog to undergo treatments three times per week with treatments lasting three to five hours each. Dialysis may be required for the duration of the pet's life.
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