2 year old dog with kidney failure

What Caused a Two-Year-Old Dogs Kidneys to Fail?

The Case

In early July, a couple brought their two-year-old terrier mix to me. The dog hadnt wanted to eat for a few days. She had vomited a couple of times. The symptoms were mild. I sent them home with some anti-nausea medicine for the dog. I expected the nausea to clear up in a day or two.

A few days later, they came back. The dog was still vomiting and didnt want to eat. She just wasnt her normal, playful self. We drew blood. The blood work findings were concerning and unexpected but gave us clues that ultimately helped save the dogs life.

The blood values showed the dogs kidneys werent working right. In fact, the kidneys were failing. The kidneys are vital organs. They filter waste and excess water out of the blood. They make urine. When kidneys begin to fail, these toxic wastes build up in the bloodstream instead of exiting the body in urine. Nauseaor not wanting to eatcan be a side effect. Acute kidney failure in dogs, or kidney failure in dogs that comes on suddenly, is a medical emergency.

When we see this kind of injuryespecially in a young dogwe often suspect a toxic exposure. Grapes and antifreeze are two common substances that can cause acute kidney failure in dogs. However, we found no evidence of poisoning.

So what caused acute kidney failure in our two-year-old terrier-mix?

The Diagnosis

Another blood test led us to the culprita deadly bacterial infection called leptospirosis. Once Leptospira bacteria are inside the body, they can damage the kidneys. They do this by causing inflammation that clogs up a kidneys filters. Leptospira can also cause liver disease though it did not in this case.

Leptospira gets into soil and water through the urine of infected animals such as mice and other rodents. Dogs can get leptospirosis from ingesting contaminated soil. They can get it from drinking from rivers or lakes. They can even get it from puddles or other small bodies of standing water.

Leptospirosis among pets is rare. However, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says its been diagnosed more frequently in the past few years. Its hard to put exact numbers on leptospirosis cases. It may be missed or confused with chronic kidney disease or other health problems, especially in older dogs. Cats can get leptospirosis too. Little is known about the disease in cats, though it appears to be milder than in dogs.

Ive personally seen two confirmed cases of leptospirosis since starting practice in South Jersey four years ago. The first was a dog from Medford, NJ. This most recent casethe terrier mix- was from Haddon Township.

The reason for a possible increase in lepto diagnoses isnt clear. Some studies suggest the risk of leptospirosis may increase after floods and hurricanes. Those seem to be happening more commonly in some parts of the country. Indeed, this most recent case took place right after big rainstorms caused flooding in some parts of our area. Of course, that could be a coincidence. We have no way of knowing for sure where our patient may have picked up the bacteria. She also recently had traveled with her owners to the Poconos. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the highest number of leptospirosis cases happen in late summer and early fall.

Happily, our patient survived. She required a five-day stay at the emergency hospital with continuous intravenous fluids to flush the kidneys and intravenous antibiotics to knock out the bacterial infection. Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can pass from animals to people. Transmission from dogs to humans is thought to be rare. However, to be safe, dogs with leptospirosis are treated in isolation and with careful handling procedures.

Vaccination

There is a yearly vaccine for leptospirosis. It can be combined in one shot with a vaccine for Lyme diseaseanother infection that can cause kidney problems. The vaccination rate for leptospirosis is low. Only about 4 percent of U.S. dogs get the lepto vaccine.

Several years ago, owners might have been advised against the leptospirosis vaccine. The old vaccine protected against only two strains of the bacteria (there are several that can cause infection). It was linked to allergic reactions in some dogs. The modern lepto vaccine is safer and more effective. It covers the most common strains of the bacteria. It has been filtered to remove excess proteins that could trigger an allergic reaction.

In my experience, dogs that get the vaccine tend to be those that spend a lot of time outdoorshunting, hiking or swimming. But I think this case shows that even dogs without those high-risk behaviors can get leptospirosispotentially even in suburban backyards. Leptospirosis is not a required vaccine. The choice to vaccinate is a personal one that you can make by weighing the pros and cons with your veterinarian.

The post What caused a two-year-old dogs kidneys to fail? appeared first on Neabore Veterinary Clinic.

Stage 2 Kidney Disease Dog Life Expectancy

[ad_1]Kidney disease is a common ailment that affects many dogs as they age. Stage 2 kidney disease in dogs is a serious issue that requires careful management to ensure the best quality of life for our furry friends. In this article, we will explore the life expectancy of dogs with stage 2 kidney disease, as well as discuss some interesting trends, common concerns, and answers related to this topic.

Stage 2 kidney disease in dogs is characterized by a mild decrease in kidney function. While it is a serious condition, with proper management and treatment, dogs with stage 2 kidney disease can still live a good quality of life. The life expectancy of dogs with stage 2 kidney disease can vary depending on various factors such as the underlying cause of the disease, the age of the dog, and how well the disease is managed.

Interesting Trends:

1. Holistic Approach: Many pet owners are now turning to holistic approaches to manage stage 2 kidney disease in their dogs. This can include dietary changes, herbal supplements, and acupuncture. While it may not be a cure, it can help improve the overall well-being of the dog, says a holistic veterinarian.

2. Increased Awareness: There has been a significant increase in awareness about kidney disease in dogs in recent years. This has led to more early detection and proactive management of the disease, which can ultimately improve the prognosis for affected dogs, says a veterinary nephrologist.

3. Personalized Treatment Plans: Veterinarians are now focusing more on creating personalized treatment plans for dogs with stage 2 kidney disease. This can include tailored diets, medication regimens, and monitoring schedules to ensure the best possible outcome for each individual dog, says a veterinary nutritionist.

4. Advances in Veterinary Medicine: Advances in veterinary medicine have led to the development of new treatment options for dogs with kidney disease. From novel medications to innovative surgical procedures, there are now more options available to help manage this condition, says a veterinary surgeon.

5. Supportive Care: Supportive care is crucial in managing stage 2 kidney disease in dogs. This can include fluid therapy, nutritional support, and regular check-ups to monitor kidney function. With proper supportive care, dogs with kidney disease can live a longer and more comfortable life, says a veterinary internist.

6. Importance of Monitoring: Regular monitoring of kidney function is essential in dogs with stage 2 kidney disease. This can help veterinarians adjust treatment plans as needed and catch any complications early on. Monitoring can also provide valuable insights into the progression of the disease, says a veterinary technician.

7. Quality of Life: While stage 2 kidney disease in dogs can be challenging, it is important to focus on maintaining the best quality of life possible for affected dogs. This can include managing symptoms, providing a comfortable environment, and ensuring they receive plenty of love and attention, says a veterinary behaviorist.

Common Concerns and Answers:

1. Concern: Will my dogs life expectancy be significantly shortened with stage 2 kidney disease?

Answer: While stage 2 kidney disease can impact a dogs life expectancy, with proper management and treatment, many dogs can still live a good quality of life for several years.

2. Concern: What are the common symptoms of stage 2 kidney disease in dogs?

Answer: Common symptoms can include increased thirst and urination, weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and lethargy. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to consult with your veterinarian.

3. Concern: Can stage 2 kidney disease be cured in dogs?

Answer: Unfortunately, there is no cure for kidney disease in dogs. However, with proper management and treatment, the progression of the disease can be slowed, and symptoms can be managed effectively.

4. Concern: What is the best diet for a dog with stage 2 kidney disease?

Answer: A low-protein, low-phosphorus diet is often recommended for dogs with kidney disease. Your veterinarian can provide guidance on the best diet for your dog based on their individual needs.

5. Concern: Are there any medications that can help manage stage 2 kidney disease in dogs?

Answer: There are medications available that can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of kidney disease in dogs. Your veterinarian can recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for your dog.

6. Concern: How often should my dog with stage 2 kidney disease be monitored by a veterinarian?

Answer: Regular monitoring of kidney function is important for dogs with stage 2 kidney disease. Your veterinarian will recommend a monitoring schedule based on your dogs individual needs.

7. Concern: Can alternative therapies such as acupuncture or herbal supplements help manage stage 2 kidney disease in dogs?

Answer: Some pet owners have found success with alternative therapies in managing kidney disease in dogs. It is important to consult with a veterinarian before trying any alternative treatments.

8. Concern: Will my dog require hospitalization for stage 2 kidney disease?

Answer: Hospitalization may be necessary in some cases, especially if your dog is experiencing severe symptoms or complications. Your veterinarian will determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your dog.

9. Concern: Can stage 2 kidney disease be prevented in dogs?

Answer: While it may not be possible to prevent kidney disease entirely, maintaining a healthy lifestyle for your dog, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can help reduce the risk of developing kidney disease.

10. Concern: How can I ensure my dog with stage 2 kidney disease is comfortable?

Answer: Providing a comfortable environment for your dog, including a soft bed, plenty of water, and regular walks, can help ensure they are as comfortable as possible while managing their condition.

11. Concern: Will my dogs diet need to be adjusted as their kidney disease progresses?

Answer: It is likely that your dogs diet will need to be adjusted as their kidney disease progresses. Your veterinarian will provide guidance on the best diet for each stage of the disease.

12. Concern: Can stage 2 kidney disease in dogs lead to other health complications?

Answer: Kidney disease can increase the risk of other health complications such as high blood pressure, anemia, and urinary tract infections. It is important to monitor your dog closely for any signs of additional health issues.

13. Concern: Can stage 2 kidney disease in dogs be managed at home?

Answer: With proper guidance from your veterinarian, many aspects of managing stage 2 kidney disease in dogs can be done at home, including administering medications, monitoring symptoms, and providing a suitable diet.

14. Concern: How can I help my dog with stage 2 kidney disease maintain a good quality of life?

Answer: Providing plenty of love and attention, regular exercise, mental stimulation, and a comfortable environment can all help improve the quality of life for a dog with stage 2 kidney disease.

15. Concern: Are there any support groups or resources available for owners of dogs with stage 2 kidney disease?

Answer: There are several online resources, support groups, and forums available for owners of dogs with kidney disease. These can provide valuable information, support, and guidance on managing the disease.

In summary, stage 2 kidney disease in dogs is a serious condition that requires careful management to ensure the best quality of life for affected dogs. With advances in veterinary medicine, personalized treatment plans, and a holistic approach, many dogs with stage 2 kidney disease can still live a good quality of life. By monitoring symptoms, providing proper care, and working closely with your veterinarian, you can help your furry friend live a comfortable and fulfilling life despite their diagnosis.[ad_2]