Natural Remedies for
Canine Kidney Failure

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Overview

A dog can suffer from acute kidney failure which happens suddenly, usually as a result of poisoning, such as antifreeze poisoning.

Acute kidney failure is an emergency and must be treated immediately by a veterinarian.

Chronic kidney failure, on the other hand, is a slow, progressive disease that usually occurs in older dogs. Although most cases of chronic canine kidney failure are irreversible, timely treatment and careful monitoring can slow down the deterioration.

This is where natural remedies come in.

Proper use of remedies such as herbs, dietary supplements and appropriate homeopathic remedies can greatly enhance kidney functions and possibly help reduce symptoms caused by chronic canine kidney failure.

Herbal Remedies For Canine Kidney Failure

Herbs can be used to tackle canine kidney failure in three ways:

1. to improve blood circulation in the kidneys;
2. to reduce inflammation of the kidneys and the urinary tract; and
3. to increase urine output.

Herbs that can improve blood circulation include ginkgo and hawthorn.

Hawthorn is effective in increasing blood circulation, whereas ginkgo can dilate the blood vessels in the kidneys. Ginkgo also has anti-inflammation properties which can reduce inflammation in the urinary tract.

Other herbs that have anti-inflammation properties include marshmallow, couchgrass, and corn silk.

Diuretic herbs such as dandelion, alfalfa, nettle, stone root (a native North American root) are good choices to gently increase urine output.

An herbal tea made from equal parts of alfalfa, ginkgo, hawthorn and echinacea (if infection is present) can be given to your dog if she suffers from early stages of kidney failure.

Dosage: About 1 teaspoonful of the tea per 20 pounds of body weight of the dog.

An Excellent Herbal Formula for Dog Kidney Health

Kidney Support Gold for Dog Kidney Disease (Affiliate link)

This formula contains the diuretic herb stone root, anti-inflammatory herbs (e.g. marshmallow) and immune boosting herb echinacea and they work synergistically to:

• Maintain and support optimal kidney function
• Help guard against infections
• Help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with kidney problems
• Strengthen the immune system

Get this product if you don't want to concoct your own herbal remedy.

Homeopathic Remedies for Canine Kidney Failure

Homeopathic remedies are also effective in treating kidney failure in dogs.

If your dog has chronic canine kidney failure, it is advisable to consult with a holistic vet who practices homeopathy.

Detailed information, such as your dog's past and current health conditions, current symptoms and behavior, and even your dog's temperament, is needed in order to identify a suitable remedy that is best indicated for your dog's particular condition and symptoms.

Some examples of common homeopathic remedies for treating chronic kidney failure include:

• Natrum muriaticum: This remedy is useful for dogs that are very thirsty. They prefer cool places and tend to avoid the sun.
• Arsenicum album: Dogs needing this remedy are also thirty. They feel chilly and tend to be restless - the conditions usually worsen after midnight.
• Phosphorus: This remedy is helpful for dogs that are thirsty for cold water but they often vomit after drinking or eating. They tend to have a decreased appetite accompanied by weight loss.
• Mercurius: This remedy is used when the kidney disease has progressed to the point where ulcers in the mouth or on the tongue are formed. The dogs tend to have very bad breath and sticky saliva. They also tend to become irritable and want to be left alone.

Natural Supplements for Dogs with Kidney Failure

Some dietary supplements are also essential if your dog is suffering from chronic kidney failure.

• Vitamins B and C: As water soluble vitamins, such as vitamins B and C, are eliminated by frequent urination, it is important to replenish these vitamins.
• Sodium Bicarbonate: Excessive urine also flushes out bicarbonate ions from the kidney tissue. However, kidneys depend on the bicarbonate ions in order to function properly. One simple way to replenish the ions is to add a pinch of baking soda to your dog's food.
• Calcium: Adequate calcium intake is necessary since calcium can help slow the progression of kidney failure by binding some of the excessive phosphorus in the blood, thus reducing crystal and stone formation in the kidneys.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Studies suggest that dog with kidney failure can benefit greatly by taking omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon oil)- they are likely to live longer than those who do not take them. Remember, when giving fish oil to dogs, be sure to also give vitamin E to prevent vitamin E deficiency.
• Coenzyme Q 10: Co-Q 10 aids in oxygenation and is helpful for eliminating toxins and boosting a dog's energy level.

Diet for Canine Kidney Failure

In addition to remedies and supplements, you should also pay attention to your dog's diet if he has chronic kidney failure.

Some vets may suggest a low-protein diet, and in fact there are prescription dog diets (such as Hill's® k/d®) that many vets sell in their clinics.

But is a low-protein diet really appropriate for dogs with kidney failure? If not, what is more appropriate?

Read this article to find out.