brookcove
Posted : 6/11/2009 1:02:23 AM
I'm kind of surpised the doctor who diagnosed your dog didn't prescribe a diet, or at least tell you exactly what to look for.
Failing that, I'd take my dog's medical history to a veterinary nutritionist and get some suggestions - either appropriate commercial foods, or a nutritionally balanced home prepared diet.
Kidney problems come in a very wide spectrum, and arise from extremely varied causes. The needs of your dog might be different than another dog with renal problems.
For instance, in early renal dysfunction, it's actually more important to offer more protein, of the right kind. It's also important that things like potassium and sodium balances are correct to ensure proper fluid levels. Eggs and canned fish, which figure in a lot of home prepared diets, have a whole bunch of sodium.
In later stages of failure, one does indeed reduce protein (ie, nitrogen/urea sources), but it's important that the protein that is offered is of optimal quality (most kidney-friendly diets use egg and fish), and that the carbs which replace the protein as an energy source are not themselves challenging to renal function.
Kidney problems cause a cascade effect which a knowlegeable specialist can address. It's well worth it - it's spendy up front but you'll literally save hundreds and thousands in emergency trips for preventable problems, not to mention maintaining quality of life for your dog. It's not a guarantee, but if your dog's disease or trauma isn't severely progressive, you can achieve a happy equilibrium that can last for many years.