Kidney Stones In DogsKidney stones in dogs, just like in humans, can be very painful and can lead to serious health issues if not treated. Fortunately, they aren't as common as they are in people. They also occur much less frequently than the equally troublesome bladder stones. Kidney stones tend to appear more frequently in females than in males. The average age for dogs with kidney stones is six to seven years of age. Any dog breed can be affected, even Golden Retrievers. But there are some breeds that are naturally predisposed to develop kidney stones. These include the Dalmatian, Yorkshire Terrier, English Bulldog, Lhasa Apso, Miniature Schnauzer, Miniature Poodle, Shih Tzu, Bichon Frise, and Cocker Spaniel. What Are Kidney Stones?Most of these stones are made of mineral salts commonly found in the body--calcium, magnesium, ammonia, and phosphorus.
Well, canine kidney stones are formed much the same way pearls are formed inside an oyster. It all starts with a single irritating particle of something. In this case, the culprit is often a bit of debris from urinary tract infections. Soon other minerals are deposited on its surface, layer upon layer. Over time, it grows larger and forms a kidney stone (technically called a nephrolith) with a composition and consistency similar to that of limestone. While there are no harmful effects of kidney stones in dogs as long as they stay in the kidneys, the problems start when they migrate into the urinary tract to head for the outside world. Passing a kidney stone is probably just as painful for dogs as for people (ouch!). But if they're too big to slide all the way out, they'll plug up your dog's waterworks--instant emergency. Causes For Kidney Stones In Dogs While there are several types of stones, each type is often associated with its own specific cause.Some of these kidney stone causes might be:
Signs of a Kidney StoneThe severity of symptoms actually depends on the location, number, shape and size of kidney stones in dogs.Although a few dogs never display any discomfort or anything else out of the ordinary, here are some general kidney stone symptoms you can watch for:
Making a Kidney Stones DiagnosisBecause there are different types of kidney stones in dogs, your veterinarian will need to perform several tests in order to arrive at the diagnosis that will help him treat your buddy. These tests may include:
Treating Kidney Stones In DogsTreatment options actually vary according to what type of stone is involved.
If you'd like to check into natural cures for kidney stones in dogs, I'd suggest you contact a holistic veterinarian for advice. Just use the Internet to find one in your area, or ask your own vet if he knows one. There may even be an herbal remedy for kidney stones that works as well for dogs as for people. If your pet is on a stone dissolving diet, that's all she gets to eat. Absolutely NO snacks or other foods are permitted--if you want this to work. Your vet has done his part, now you have to do your part! Give your dog all her medicine in the right dosages and at the right times, and keep your follow-up appointments with your vet. This is one of those "it takes a village" things. Everybody has to work together! Maybe your dog has a kidney stone but it's not causing her any problems at the moment. Even your vet told you there's no need to do anything about it right now. That doesn't mean your vet is ignoring the situation. He'll still monitor your dog periodically by urinalysis, urine culture, radiographs and/or ultrasound to keep track of the stone. Although some inactive stones may remain quietly tucked away in the kidneys for the rest of a dog's life, you should know that inactive stones can become active as they head for the outside world. It's those complications of kidney stones in dogs--like blockages and urinary tract infections--that can cause problems with very little warning. You need to stay alert for any symptoms so you can get your dog to the vet without delay. How to Avoid Kidney Stones In the FutureIf your Golden Retriever has a chronic kidney stone problem, your vet may want to put her on a special diet for kidney stones, at least for awhile.Some of these special foods are designed to naturally dissolve kidney stones as well as discourage the formation of new ones. Such a deal!
Make sure they also have a chance to potty frequently, so the minerals in the urine don't have time to cause trouble. If your dog doesn't drink as much water as she should, you can add warm water to her kibble and let it sit for a couple of minutes. It makes a yummy-smelling stew that probably tastes pretty great, too. At least, my dogs think so! General blood work, urinalysis and urine culture will need to be done periodically. Abdominal X-rays or ultrasound (depending on the stone type) should be done every few months at first, and once or twice yearly thereafter. Keep in touch with your vet and follow his recommendations to the letter, if you want to keep your precious pup stone-free. Knowing how to prevent kidney stones in dogs is a lot easier than dealing with a painful problem further down the road. Search here for more information on Golden Retrievers |
If the concentration of mineral salts is too high in the urine, they precipitate out. Then what?
You may be fortunate enough to experience "the case of the dissolving kidney stone," through the use of a special diet and/or medication.
All stone-prone dogs should have plenty of fresh water to drink, to keep their urine diluted.
