01/23/2021
Dogs and their Kidneys. This is a long story but an important one. And it's because of me and my love of my dogs and all dogs. I hope this can help someone. Being told in November that my lab, Carl, his kidney levels were slightly off. And being told to "keep an eye on this" is interesting to me. And "keeping an eye on" my dogs kidneys is not going to happen, I go into preventative mode, protective mode and "I'll do everything possible to make sure my dogs are safe before it's unsafe" mode. However, when my beloved Sadie Mae, her levels came back a little bit off and then her having to go back for more tests, and then being told "only other thing you can do is get her an ultrasound" means I bring her for an ultrasound and then I find ways to make any kidney issues for both Carl and Sadie Mae, disappear. I'm going to make sure that they are both well and this kidney thing scares me. Kidney disease is so prevalent nowadays. But not taking action immediately is not my way. It's like saying to a person "you have the start of kidney disease, let's keep an eye on it." Not going to happen if it's my family member or a friend of mine. I am going to work to get it fixed BEFORE it gets worse.
So, here's my thinking, which may show some of my paranoia about keeping my dogs healthy. I am going to find a way to prevent and treat any kidney issues, before they are an issue. Make sense? Not really but I'm sure you all understand what I'm saying. Who has had a dog with a kidney issue? And what steps did you take?
Two days ago I found this website, and I called them and they couldn't have been kinder or more intelligent about dogs and their kidneys. I was on the phone with them and asked all the right questions about all the numbers I'd gotten back from Carl's three urine tests, and his blood tests, which came back close to normal. I'll get into this question more, later on. Why would and how could both my dogs, Sadie and Carl, both have results coming back six weeks apart, on the tests on their kidneys?
And I have heard and seen that nutrition is key for dogs. I talked to a vet yesterday that said she doesn't like kibble for dogs. But we're talking lots of $$ here, to buy fresh and human grade dog food. I figure I could lose a few pounds, I'd prefer my dogs are healthy and I skip some meals, than not taking these preventative measures. So have a look below, would love some opinions, 'pm me if you have any experience with this, and please post what you feed your dog, and opinions of what your thoughts are on fresh human grade dog food. I'm liking the company below though, their customer service is out of the world and their ability and willingness to ask the right questions is so great! I've ordered and although I hate to start my dogs on new food again (it was suggested to me in December to switch Carl to Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function Dry Dog Food), I hate to switch my dogs, it's a big deal for their digestion to be switched, but have a look below, I'm using this dog food. Thoughts, opinions, and does anyone have any experience with this below dog food? The staff is so great, the customer service! And the reviews too! I am going to do everything possible to keep my dogs, all four, safe and with healthy kidneys.
https://www.drharveys.com/products/dogs/1-canine-health-miracle-dog-food/nutrition-for-dogs-with-kidney-problems?gclid=CjwKCAiAr6-ABhAfEiwADO4sfSm8K9uDYTqKo3ENCKyw9gwMq1izIO8MUtWrW19M0TFT3X1alctF8BoCB4AQAvD_BwE
