Renal Failure

Many important tasks are carried out by the kidneys when they are functioning normally. They remove toxins from the blood and excrete them from the body in urine, regulate blood pressure and blood acidity levels, as well as preventing water loss and maintaining an overall healthy metabolic balance. Any condition which stops the kidneys working properly is referred to kidney or renal disease, and can vary greatly in severity. It means damage is in progress but there is still functional tissue left. In renal failure, the kidneys have stopped working altogether and is far more serious.
Kidney disease is classified in two ways; acute and chronic.
When the condition is acute, it is a complication of another condition such as kidney stones or cancer, or the consumption of something toxic. In this case, symptoms can be severe and onset rapidly but, depending on the cause, the condition can sometimes be treated and resolved.
Chronic renal disease is an irreversible long-term condition which progresses gradually over time. But, because dogs have much more kidney tissue than is essential for day to day life, chronic disease can also appear to start suddenly because symptoms often only show when a lot of damage has already happened. Although there is no cure for chronic renal disease, early intervention can sometimes limit the damage done to the kidneys and slow the progression of the disease. Chronic renal disease is normally caused by a primary malfunction of the kidneys and not another illness or toxicity, although acute renal failure can sometimes develop into a chronic form of the condition.
There are many different causes of kidney disease in dogs. Certain breeds are more susceptible to the condition and it can often be genetic. Age has a bearing on renal functionality, and environmental factors can also damage the organs, such as chemicals, toxic foods, infections and some medications. Kidney problems in dogs can also be caused by illnesses such as cancer. It is even
suggested that advanced dental disease has a link with renal failure.
Symptoms of renal failure in dogs can vary dramatically between cases because the kidneys are responsible for so many functions within the body. Symptoms can appear suddenly or progressively, and can include any of the following:
Drinking excessively and urinating more frequently. It often seems strange to pet owners that a pet which is urinating a lot can have renal problems but it is because the kidneys lose their ability to conserve water.

Soiling in the home due to the larger volumes of urine
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Pale gums (caused by anaemia)
Mouth Ulcers
Overall weakness or dullness
Sudden blindness due to high blood pressure
Fragile bones
But remember, most of the above symptoms can be caused by other conditions which are less serious. However, if symptoms do arise, it is important to take your dog to see the vet as soon as possible as early treatment is vital if kidney disease is detected.