Kidney failure is a common occurrence in older dogs.

Kidney Function
The function of the kidneys is to filter toxins from the blood.Excess filtered water is then passed to the bladder for elimination.

When kidneys fail, toxins build up in the body. Water is not properly eliminated, causing an increase in blood pressure.

Chronic versus Acute
Chronic kidney failure can progress very slowly and not show any signs until the animal has lost nearly two thirds of his kidney function.
Initial symptoms of chronic kidney failure are increased thirst and urination, weight loss, weakness, and a tendency to bleed or bruise easily.

Infections, drugs and toxic substances (i.e.. antifreeze) can cause acute kidney failure, which is sudden and often fatal. Signs of acute renal failure are dehydration, stiff-legged gait and/or arched back (signals kidney pain), and little or no urine produced. Other signs can include: depression, loss of appetite, chemical odor on the breath, vomiting, shivering and diarrhea. Not all these signs will be present.

Regular blood tests in older dogs are helpful to establish a baseline for kidney function. It can often be difficult to differentiate from acute and chronic failure based on a single blood test.

Management and Treatment
Treatments will be different depending on which type of failure is present.

Chronic kidney failure can usually be managed very well by controlling the diet The important factors are low phosphorous and high-quality protein, especially eggs. This reduces the amount of by-products the kidney has to filter.

Vetri-Science Renal Essentials provide support for optimal kidney function. It may not be appropriate in all cases.
Sodium restriction may also be necessary if blood pressure is elevated. Additional vitamins B and C are needed to replenish that being lost due to excessive urine production.

Acute renal failure is similiar to chronic, except that it comes on suddenly and is usually more severe. The addition of intense fluid therapy (intravenous or subcutaneous) is usually the only difference in treatment.

For more information, see this article by Dr. Larry Siegler at Only Natural Pet Store

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