None of us want our dogs to grow ill. But as a dog parent, it’s important to monitor your pup’s health on a regular basis. Changes in behavior can be the tell-tale sign of a variety of health issues, including kidney disease. The kidney is extremely important to overall digestive help. It eliminates metabolic waste that results from the digestion of food. Unfortunately, Kidney disease is one of the most common conditions diagnosed in dogs. Conventional care will often reduce kidney disease as a result of exposure to toxins. However Holistic Vets recognize that the kidney and its health is connected to the health and condition of the entire body. Factors including poor diet, muscle injury, stress/anxiety, and genetics can all increase the risk of your dog developing kidney disease.
The most common symptoms of kidney disease in dogs include:
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Increased urination and water consumption
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Lack of appetite
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Lower energy levels
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Vomiting
However, it’s important to note that many dogs don’t display symptoms during the early onset of kidney disease. So it’s important for all dog parents to take care of their pup’s overall health and kidney health. Keep reading for our best tips on supporting your dog’s kidney health!
Diet
Giving your dog a well-balanced and healthy diet is one of the best ways you can help prevent and treat kidney disease. The more natural, safe, and wholesome diet you are feeding, the less strain and overwork is required by the kidney and bladder. A lot of big brand dog kibble includes meat that is full of toxins, which in turn damage the kidney. Avoid a diet of only dry food - it is hard on the kidney because it absorbs too much water, leaving your dog dehydrated without you realizing it. It’s important that you’re giving your dog high-quality protein free of additives and toxins. That’s why raw food is the best where possible. Additionally, avoid beef which contains higher levels of inflammatory properties. When it comes to protein, opt for high-quality and varied options.
In addition, there are a number of veggies that you can add to your pup’s food to help cleanse the kidney naturally. These include celery, cucumbers, parsley, carrots
Supplements
There are a number of supplements that will support your dog’s kidney function. For example, Omega-3 is extremely important to kidney function. Foods such as fish are naturally high in omega-3, but there are also a variety of natural and holistic supplements to help.
Probiotics are also very important to support your dog’s kidney health. Not only do they directly aid function, but they also boost your dog’s entire immune system. Like any disease, having a strong immune system is key to prevention and maintenance should your dog be diagnosed with kidney disease.
In addition to general supplements that support your dog’s overall health, there are also specific supplements made to aid urinary and kidney functions by normalizing bladder & kidney muscle function. Try mixing supplements into your dog’s food or water…if it’s natural, high-quality, and delicious food, your dog won’t notice!
See your holistic vet
This list is by no means exhaustive. It’s important to see your holistic vet regularly in case your dog does have kidney disease and needs more support. And if you do get that diagnosis, try not to panic. Many dogs are able to live happily for years after they get diagnosed with kidney disease. With the right diet and support, kidney disease doesn’t have to be a cause for panic.