Discovering that your beloved dog is facing kidney issues, such as Chronic Renal Failure or high kidney values, can be truly heart-wrenching. Sadly, these conditions often progress rapidly, leaving pet owners feeling helpless. Typically, when you consult a conventional veterinarian, they will recommend an immediate switch to a prescription diet, most commonly Science Diet K/D.
However, a closer look at the ingredients in K/D reveals some concerns:
- Brewers Rice
- Pork Fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols and citric acid)
- Dried Egg Product
- Flaxseed
- Corn Gluten Meal
- Chicken Liver Flavor
- Powdered Cellulose
- Calcium Carbonate
- Dried Beet Pulp
- L-Lysine
- Potassium Chloride
- Potassium Citrate
- Choline Chloride
- Iodized Salt
Notably absent is a significant meat component. Many mistakenly believe that dogs with kidney problems should avoid protein altogether. In reality, they should receive less phosphorus and the right proteins.
Proteins are a cornerstone of a carnivore's diet. Our dogs and cats are indeed carnivores, and animal-based proteins provide essential amino acids. Depriving them of protein is removing a vital part of their nutrition. Contrary to some beliefs, protein doesn't cause kidney problems as pets age, nor should it be eliminated from the diet of animals with kidney distress.
Dogaware.com, a leading resource on kidney problems in pets, highlights the importance of reducing phosphorus intake to slow kidney disease progression. Feeding fattier meats can supply necessary calories while decreasing phosphorus levels, especially if your dog is prone to pancreatitis. Raw fats are easily digested and preferred over cooked fats.
Avoiding high-phosphorus foods like bones is crucial for kidney patients. Replace bones with a calcium supplement from whole food sources like Eggshellent Calcium. Calcium acts as a phosphorus binder, assisting the kidneys in managing phosphorus levels. Steer clear of other phosphorus-rich foods like fish, cheese, and organ meats, except for organ meats in small, moderated amounts. Your dietary goals should prioritize moderate to high-fat content, high-quality protein, low phosphorus, and ample hydration (Whole Dog Journal, May 2005).
Prescription diets can lead to reduced appetite, compromising your pet's health. A fantastic option for kidney patients is tripe, naturally low in phosphorus and rich in non-bone calcium sources. Many dogs that refuse or have stopped eating prescription kibble will gladly eat raw tripe. Tripe, sourced from the stomach of ruminant animals, provides almost complete nutrition and is seldom ignored.
At A Place For Paws, we offer a Kidney Package that includes Beef Tripe and our specially formulated Pork mix, featuring Eggshellent Calcium instead of pork bone. This combination can transform your kidney dog's eating habits. Another valuable addition for pets with kidney issues is Grizzly Salmon Oil, providing ample Omega-3 essential fatty acids known to benefit dogs with chronic renal failure or high kidney values (WDJ, 2005).
Remember, your pet's well-being hinges on good nutrition. A healthy body is vital in the fight against illness, as poor nutrition can expedite the course of their condition. Choose wisely to ensure your pet's health and happiness.