Picture a factory that processes and recycles waste inside your body. The organ that does this is called the kidney. The bladder and kidneys work together as some of the waste products processed by the kidneys exit via the bladder. The functions of the kidney include some of the following:
- Removal of waste products from the body
- Removal of harmful toxins in the body
- Water regulation in the body
- Release of hormones responsible for regulating blood pressure
- Regulating the production of red blood cells
Ways of improving kidney functions in dogs
The internal system of all animals is such that individual organs do not function in isolation and the kidney is no different. There are so many common such as kidney stones, urinary incontinence, kidney cysts, etc. A healthy kidney will prevent all of this from occurring.
We will articulate ways of improving the kidney functions of your dogs:
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Pay attention to their fluid and electrolyte balance:
It is imperative that your dog is well hydrated at all times as frequent dehydration can cause the kidneys to overwork itself. Ensure that your dog always has a bowl of clean water.
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Balance micronutrients in meals:
This is a conversation that you must have with your veterinarian. At Safari Veterinary Care Center, we have the best vet doctors and they will talk you through the nutrients you should limit in your dog’s meal such as phosphorus.
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Dietary consideration:
Another very important thing to consider is what you give your dog to eat. There is this common misconception that feeding dogs with a low protein diet can prevent kidney disease. However, there has not been any research that has validated this claim. Moreover, because most commercial kibble dog diets are typically high in inflammatory carbs and very low protein, it does not sound like further reducing their protein consumption is the right thing to do.
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Pay attention to the kind of treats that you offer to your dog:
Most dog treats have very high levels of protein, sodium, and/or, phosphorus. If your dog has chronic kidney failure, you have to be very conscious of the kind of treats that you are offering them. Most of the popular treats such as jerky, cheese, pig ears, and rawhides are rich in protein and therefore phosphorus as it is a component. Also, it is best to avoid treats with high salt content. You can substitute the above-mentioned treats with air-popped popcorn without butter or salt, broccoli, apple slices, green beans, banana, etc.
- Give your dogs natural herbs that do not damage kidneys and have been shown to balance immune responses such as ginkgo biloba, turmeric, green tea extracts, inositol, etc.
Do some or all of these things and your dog will be better off for it. It is probably a good time to remind you that the SafariVet team is the best you can wish for. Check us out and you won’t be disappointed.
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