Ingesting Toxins - Chemicals like antifreeze, cleaners, disinfectants used in the home, some plants, and bad food. Just as you "childproof" your home, "pup proof" it. Keep chemicals and cleaners in a locked/secured or high cabinet. Dogs love to chew! Bad food like raisins, salty snacks, grapes, and contaminated water sources are just a few. Ask your Vet for more information. Many types of Lilies like Tiger, Calla, Asiatic, Easter, Peace, and Japanese Show are toxic to kidneys.
Urinary Tract Obstruction - when the blood flow decreases, kidneys receive less oxygen and become prone to infection.
Dehydration - Loss of skin elasticity. Loss of appetite. Vomiting (with or without diarrhea). Reduced energy levels and lethargy. Panting. Sunken, dry-looking eyes. Dry nose. Dry, sticky gums. Thick saliva.
Heat Stroke - Make sure your pup always has access to a cool shaded area when outside and keep exposure to higher temperatures to a minimum. Remember, they do not have sweat glands. Restrict exercise on warm days (dogs should be walked early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the hottest part of the day). Pack a water bottle on walks. If you need air conditioning, your pup needed it long before you did.
Leptospirosis - a bacterial infection - spiral-shaped bacteria called leptospires, that thrive in moist environments and water. The bacteria can contaminate water or soil, where it can survive for weeks to months. Animals can become infected through contact with contaminated urine, body fluids, water, or soil from an infected animal. There is a vaccine for it.
Senior Dogs - old age causes degeneration of kidneys because cells break down and die over time. Since all kidneys have a life span, deterioration/failure will vary.
Dental Disease - Tarter-containing bacteria build up on teeth and enter the digestive system when eating and drinking. Since the kidneys are designed to filter the waste, bacteria entering the kidneys disrupt the kidney's function over time. Ask your Vet about the frequency of teeth cleaning for your pup. Also, clean their teeth at home.
Pharmaceutical Medications - over-the-counter and prescribed medication for pain (ibuprofen, acetaminophen aspirin, etc.)
SIGNS OF KIDNEY FAILURE
Weight Loss - significant, unexplained
Vomiting
Gums that appear pale, no longer healthy and pink in color
Gastric or intestinal issues - constipation, chronic diarrhea or manic itching
Breath that smells unusual - chemical smell
Blood in Urine
Sores in mouth
Urination is significantly increased or decreased
Intake of water has significantly increased or decreased
Increased fatigue, lack of physical motivation, sleepiness, and drowsiness.
Get your pup to the Vet ASAP.