#food for dogs with kidney disease

[thedognutritionist]

Royal Canin Renal (Kidney) Dog Food Review - The Dog Nutritionist

Are you looking for the best kidney support food for your furry friend? Look no further than the Royal Canin Renal (Kidney) Dog Food Review by me (The Dog Nutritionist). Hi, I'm Cam Wimble, a certified Dog Nutritionist, and in this video, I dive deep into the ingredients of Royal Canin Renal Dog Food to see if it truly delivers the kidney support your dog needs.

Many dog owners rely on prescription dog food like Royal Canin Renal for kidney issues, assuming it's the best option. But is it really working? I'll uncover the truth in this review and suggest better alternatives if needed based on my experience working with dogs with kidney problems.

Let's debunk the myth of low-protein diets and explore why some kidney-support foods may not be as effective as you think. Cheap ingredients and lacking nutritional value could be harming your dog's health.

Don't settle for subpar dog food - visit www.thedognutritionist.com for more information on giving your dog the best care possible.

Treat your furry friend to the quality nutrition they deserve.

[libelelle]

Great news btw: juno has rapidly improved on his fluids!! Hes been really good about getting them in, and his appetite and energy and everything has gotten so much better. AND HES GAINING WEIGHT!!!

[drsamahfouad]

This is an article about dog food for kidney disease

#healthlinkeg #doglovers #pet_care #dogs #pets

[poochwell01]

📋 Kidney Diet for Dogs Homemade: Complete Meal Plans for Your Pup is here to transform your furry friend's health! 🍲�� This video provides easy, nutritious, and delicious homemade recipes that can help manage your dog's kidney health effectively. Dive in to discover meal plans that are both tasty and beneficial for your pup's well-being. Don't miss out on these vital tips and recipes!

[queen-mabs-revenge]

h8 this shit no she's a baby

[zetasattic]

Day 43, Labs, Not The Awesome Dog Kind

I’m typing this up on Sunday before the superbowl so I don’t know who wins/won but I personally am pulling for the Chiefs. I like Patrick, he has a good vibe. Anyway, we have labs this morning (Monday) so hopefully we can find out what’s going on but if it’s anything like the past they will say the labs don’t show anything wrong so it must be ok. We’ll see in a matter of hours. The labs usually…

[keeperesque]

hi, this is my dog! her name is magnolia mae and she's an elderly chihuahua-dachshund mix (estimated between 12-15 years old). she's a rescue we received from my roommate and best friend's late cousin about 5 years ago.

long story short, our sweet girl has been experiencing some severe and concerning health issues (extremely low RBC, WBC, Neutrophils, and Platelets), and she needs to have her bone marrow tested. this is extremely expensive (at least 1,200), and we're hoping to get some help. if you'd like more information on what's going on with her, that will be under the cut. otherwise, please consider using either of the below methods to help us take care of our sweet old girl!

ppal.me: @/daisyd0nati0ns (replace 0s with Os)

kof!: @/keeperesque

don't tag as d0nat!ons/etc, etc..

when we moved across the country during late 2020 to be with my wife, we brought her, as well as my elderly cat sampson and my two older rabbits, indie and digit.

2023, however, has not been kind to any of our pets. in february, we lost sampson to kidney failure - it was sudden and utterly heartbreaking. a month later, my wife found that digit had passed away in her sleep, and indie was put down shortly after due to health complications we could not afford to properly treat. since then, we've been extremely diligent with maggie's health - she eats special food for her kidneys, has vet appointments scheduled every 6 months, gets twice-daily walks, takes medication for her thyroid, and receives plenty of love.

unfortunately, starting with an emergency visit in september, maggie's been having severe problems with her blood - specifically an extremely low platelet count (33,000-55,000, normal levels are about 200,000), white blood cell count and neutrophils are extremely low, and she's extremely anemic. while she's on some medication to keep her stable, we aren't sure how long that will last, and it's taxing on her body.

after ruling out infectious diseases, we need to take her in to have her bone marrow looked at. the procedure, at the low end, will cost around 1,200, and up to 1,600, depending.

i also have pdfs available for anyone skeptical of these claims or who want proof of treatment.

we're not sure if we'll be able to save her, but we would at least like to know what's happening so we can make an informed decision on how to proceed, instead of watching and waiting for the worst. anything over the price of her procedure will, of course, go towards related expenses, such as treatments or end-of-life care.

if you read all of that, thanks. again, please consider helping us out!!

ppal.me: @/daisyd0nations (0 is an o)

kof!: @/keeperesque

have an extra maggie pic :)

[plumbits]

Leptospirosis: What it is, what it does, and how you can protect yourself and your pets.

People always have questions about leptospirosis (lepto) when they come into the clinic, especially in regards to the vaccine. This post will hopefully clear up those questions or any confusion regarding lepto and its vaccine, and why it's so serious. The information in this post comes from my formal education as a LVT, as well as other sources including the CDC, PAHO, and AVMA. If I missed anything or you see something that's incorrect, please let me know!

First and foremost: What is leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that effects human and non-human animals. It's caused by bacteria in the genus Leptospira. In humans, it can cause a wide range of symptoms that can be very general. This leads to misdiagnoses. Animals such as dogs, livestock, and certain wildlife are all susceptible to infection.

How is leptospirosis spread?

Lepto is most often spread through contact with the urine of an infected animal. This is especially the case (but not the only case) with wild rodents. Infected dogs can seem healthy, but still pass the bacteria on in their urine. In urine-soaked soil, the bacteria can survive for weeks to months.

Dogs typically become infected when their mucous membranes or open wounds come into contact with urine or urine contaminated surfaces (like soil or water). Infection can also be spread through urine-contaminated bedding or food, or the tissues from the carcass of an infected animal. There have been rare instances where lepto has been transmitted by bite or breeding. A pregnant dog who is infected may pass the bacteria to her puppies through the placenta.

Humans contract lepto pretty much the same way: through contact with urine from an infected animal or urine-contaminated surfaces.

What are the signs and symptoms?

In humans:

High fever

Headache and muscle aches

Chills

Jaundice

Vomiting and diarrhea

Redness of the eyes

Abdominal pain

Rash

Humans can also be asymptomatic, which is particularly concerning. It usually takes anywhere from 2 days to 4 weeks post-exposure to the infection source before any symptoms are displayed. The illness begins abruptly and it may occur in 2 phases. The first phase is where you will see a lot of the general symptoms listed above. The person infected may recover for a period of time, but become ill again. The second phase is more severe, leading to kidney or liver failure, and possible meningitis. The illness can last a few days to 3 weeks or longer.

Without treatment, recovery can take several months.

In dogs:

Signs and symptoms may vary slightly depending on the strain of the infected bacteria. The signs are also very general in dogs, but the most common ones include:

Loss of appetite

Vomiting and diarrhea

Lethargy

Abdominal pain

Jaundice

Dehydration

Increased thirst and urination

Weight loss

Stiffness or muscle pain

The disease can also progress to kidney and liver failure in dogs, with damage to other organ systems also noted in the literature. Lepto can also cause bleeding disorders, which can lead to blood in urine, vomit, feces, or saliva, and petechiae on the mucous membranes or light colored skin.

Who is most at risk?

For humans, those who are most at risk include those who work with animals or outdoors where you come into contact with wildlife. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) also mentions that sewer workers and military personnel are at-risk populations. Farmers (and generally people who work with livestock) also make the list, as do veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and veterinary assistants.

For dogs, it's all of them. "All dogs are at risk of leptospirosis, regardless of age, breed, lifestyle, geographic location, time of year, and other factors." (source: AVMA)

Situations that can increase the risk of your dog contracting leptospirosis are listed below:

Exposure to drinking from slow-moving or stagnant water sources (this includes puddles)

Roaming on rural property

Exposure to wild animals or farm animals, even if it's only in the yard

Contact with other dogs (such as in urban areas, dog parks, boarding, or training facilities.

How is leptospirosis treated and diagnosed?

Disclaimer: I am NOT a medical doctor or DVM, but I am an LVT. If you think you're experiencing these symptoms, PLEASE go see your doctor. If you think your dog or any of your other animals are experiencing these symptoms, PLEASE take them to your vet.

Diagnosis in non-human animals:

Unfortunately, routine blood tests alone cannot diagnose leptospirosis. That's why it's important for your vet to use all information available to them (i.e. diagnostics, signs and symptoms, lifestyle, etc). There WILL be abnormal results for blood work, most likely high liver and/or kidney values and high white blood cell count. There are specific tests available for diagnosing lepto, such as the DNA-PCR and MAT tests. Both may be needed to reach or confirm a diagnosis. False negatives are possible, so your pet may be treated as if they have leptospirosis, even if the test results are negative. False positives are exceedingly rare.

Diagnosis in humans:

Leptospirosis is diagnosed in a similar fashion in humans. A physical exam, blood work, and urinalysis will likely be run. The same style of tests are used: DNA-PCR and MAT.

Treatment in non-human animals:

Leptospirosis is treated with antibiotics and supportive care. Doxycycline is most commonly used, and will likely be prescribed for 2 weeks or more. Supportive care includes hospitalization with IV fluids and management of electrolyte levels. Additional medications and procedures may be necessary.

Treatment in humans:

The treatment is similar in humans, with antibiotics (usually doxycycline). Your doctor may also suggest to take ibuprofen and monitor yourself at home for less severe cases. If the case is severe, then you'll likely spend time in the hospital. Additional medications or procedures may also be necessary.

Outcomes:

In non-human animals:

Leptospirosis is responsive to treatment with antibiotics. Complete recovery is possible, but some animals that survive may be left with chronic kidney and liver disease. Some animals may not survive if the infection has gotten to the point where it causes severe organ damage or the ability of blood to form clots.

In humans:

You can survive leptospirosis. Most cases have either very mild symptoms that go away on their own, or none at all. Without treatment, leptospirosis can cause kidney damage, meningitis, liver failure, trouble breathing, and even death. PLEASE go see a doctor if you think you're experiencing any of these symptoms, especially together.

Prevention

How can you prevent infection and protect your pets?

For dogs, there's the leptospirosis vaccine. This is an annual vaccine that vaccinates against multiple strains of Leptospira. If you're worried about your dog having a vaccine reaction, let your vet know and they can administer an injection of diphenhydramine (generic benadryl) beforehand, OR you can ask them what the appropriate dose is for your dog and give them the respective amount at home (in tablets or liquid). Vaccine reactions are uncommon, but if they do happen, it's usually immediately after exposure to the vaccine. You can ask to stick around in the lobby/waiting area of your vet clinic for a few extra minutes if you're still concerned.

Limit your dog's access to standing water. Don't let them drink from it. Prevent rodent problems where you can by properly storing food items in appropriate containers, securing your garbage, and patching up any access points into your house if you see them. Try to avoid contact with wildlife, when possible.

For humans, the recommendations remain similar. Don't wade or swim in stagnant water, ESPECIALLY if you have open wounds. Avoid contact with wildlife. WASH YOUR HANDS, often and appropriately. USE PPE if you work in a veterinary setting and properly clean and disinfect surfaces and equipment. Make sure you know or research the area that you're in if you like swimming and boating. Check to see if there have been any recent lepto infections. Cover your scrapes and wounds with waterproof bandages and wear water shoes if possible.

I hope this post answered a lot of your questions! Thanks for reading.

Sources under the cut.

Sources:

[labete-du-gevaudan]

I had to say goodbye to Jack today.

She had been steadily losing weight and I thought it was just because she was getting old. But in the last couple days she RAPIDLY lost weight. The vet said it was end stage kidney disease.

She was ready to go. She only held on for a heartbeat of a second after the injection. I was holding her paw and petting her head. She was the best cat in the whole world.

Jack was my first pet that was all mine. I met her when she was 3 weeks old at my first college summer job in 2013. They said “do you want a kitten?” when she was old enough for a home. Of course I wanted a kitten! She was spunky and sassy and hated everyone but me.

Once she turned 8, she started getting friendlier to others too. She liked being with the dogs and beating up the other cats. She loved stealing food and enjoying Ben’s tuna water. Jack liked sleeping and would always purr even if you just looked at her. She liked riding on your shoulder and she liked to cuddle.

When I got in the car after she passed, I plugged my phone in. The same song always comes on. Adio (Acoustic version) by Agathadamion. But it weirdly started halfway through the song. The word “Farewell” rang through my car’s speakers before turning off by itself.

If that wasn’t a sign, I don’t know what is.

I love you so much, Jack. I hope you wait for me. I hope you’re not in pain anymore. I hope you get to see Rudy.

[boxerbeans]

TW: pet death

Hey guys. I know I don’t post very often. I don’t even know how to start this other than that Joe died unexpectedly this morning and it’s devastating.

My sister took him to the ER last night because he had a seizure then was acting lethargic/in pain/had pale gums. They had just thought it was a sprain but the vet did bloodwork and his RBCs were critically low. The vet told them it was either cancer or that he ingested something toxic, and knowing that Joe has pancreatitis and my sister and BIL watch his access to food like a hawk I had a feeling it was the former. They took him 2 internal med specialists before the vet said it was likely a tumor on his spleen that ruptured and my sister/BIL opted to not do a splenectomy. My sister was calling me the entire time and asking for advice and it just…sucked? To know what the answer likely would be but to know that they would want to truly know the cause (as would I, even knowing what the likely outcome would be regardless). Especially because my sister is 6 months along with their first and they were super excited to introduce Joe to the baby since he adores kids. And now he’s gone.

She’s been MIA for most of the day aside from announcing it to the family but I know she’s processing it - she sent a picture to us of shortly before/after he passed. I’m also in this weird spot where I’m grieving him too, I lived with him until he was like four and then I practically lived at my sister’s apartment with him for another year or two, plus of course I see him constantly because my sister is my best friend and he’s Taylor’s dad. I love him. I was his third favorite person, behind my sister and BIL of course. I literally just saw him on Saturday when we had a family day painting the nursery and he was acting completely normal including playing with Taylor and begging for human food. But also I’m the one having to explain to everyone about what exactly happened medically and helping them process that there was nothing to be done. The only one I’ve been able to grieve to is Ian which is…not fun. I’ve been barely holding it together at work.

I’m just so so worried about my sister. She’d have a hard time with this normally, much less with her being so excited for her baby boys to meet. And I want to make her feel better but it seems like she just wants space. I’m going to give them a few days then see if I can drop off eggs this weekend and go see them. I also know the next time she sees Taylor isn’t gonna be easy cause now she’s all that Liz has left of her two favorite dogs. We had even just been discussing how Joe was her heart dog.

And I’m also worried about Taylor. She’s officially the same age as her mom was when Sandy passed from kidney disease and she has about a year and a half to be Joe’s age. Luckily she hasn’t had any seizures, which both Joe and Sandy started having by this age. All her bloodwork values are good aside from a consistently elevated ALP that our normal vet thinks is just “her normal.” This has definitely cemented my desire to get Taylor’s liver checked by ultrasound before accepting that though. I really hope we don’t find anything and that the specialist isn’t worried. Even if we do find something “early” or if we do annual ultrasounds, if it’s the same cancer as Joe’s then it’s just a ticking time bomb that we can’t really do anything about. But of course she’s still a little hellion that doesn’t act like any nine-year-old dog I know.

At least Joe got to see everyone (minus Chief and Bandit) this last weekend. And he got to see Chief and Bandit the weekend before on Memorial Day. I just wish we’d known.

I’m not ready yet, I just want at least 3 more years with her.

[megpricephotography]

Poor Flynnie has to have an ultrasound scan on Thursday :( He is STILL having some pretty severe gut problems, 2 months after they started... Plus, the most recent blood test we did showed up some slightly “off” results, nothing major but various levels were a bit higher, or lower than they should be - including some stuff related to kidney function.

After seeing the results, the vet asked me to get a urine sample. It turns out Flynn’s losing protein in his urine & his urine is also too dilute. High protein levels in urine often happens because a dog has chronic kidney disease but it can also be a temporary issue, due to infection/inflammation, (or other illnesses... like cancer, which I hope is very unlikely to be the cause here). Regardless of the reason it is happening, it puts a strain on the kidneys. Or, in Flynn’s case, a strain on his kidney. Singular. Flynn only has 1 kidney... so we really can’t mess around with this. He’s now on a “renal diet” & if it’s safe, may start on ACE inhibitors to reduce strain on his kidney. The ultrasound will look at both Flynn’s gut & his kidney, so I guess we’ll just have to wait & see if anything shows up. 

I lost Barney, less than 3 weeks ago - after he’d had the exact same infection as Flynn. Barney went from having mild kidney disease, to being in kidney failure in the space of less than a month. Barney was very elderly, of course... but, still... I don’t know what is going on with Flynn. He’s been treated twice for giardia infection, we’ve been manically cleaning to prevent reinfection, he’s on probiotics & was on GI food. He is an apparently otherwise healthy dog & he really should be getting better by now & instead, if anything he seems in some ways worse than he was 6-8 weeks ago. Argh, I am so stressed. My poor little guy :( 

[jesslovesboats]

Hi Jess, I have a Karluk question for you! What exactly was wrong with the expedition's supply of pemmican? Wikipedia says Stefansson said it was a lack of fat, but Niven's book describes the disease as coming from too much fat and protein. Are there any clear answers as to what actually made it faulty?

Hi! This is a great question, and I wanted to do a little research before I responded to make sure I got the details right.

First, what exactly is pemmican? It's one of the staple foods of polar exploration, a nutritionally balanced combination of dried meat, fat, and sometimes a small amount of carbohydrates. It's easy to transport, calorie dense, can be formulated to feed men or dogs, and doesn't spoil easily, making it ideal for long voyages. Indigenous peoples were making and using pemmican for centuries before the Europeans "discovered" it.

With this in mind, I looked at the two competing claims you mentioned. First, I found the citation in the Wikipedia article, and since I have Stef's (ridiculous) book The Friendly Arctic, I double checked it. The quote is accurate, but there's some missing context. In this passage, he was actually talking about pemmican that was specifically formulated for dogs! There was dog pemmican and man pemmican (and confusingly enough, the Karluk also had 2 different kinds of man pemmican-- more on that later). In the passage below you can see that Stef is complaining about the dog pemmican being deficient in fat, and how he claims it affected dog performance.

(In general, though, it's important to note that Stef had a... tenuous relationship with the truth. I would fact check anything he said as a matter of principle.)

To examine Niven's claim, I called in the big guns, by which I mean I consulted with an actual expert with their Ph.D. in all things polar and a special interest in Stef's shenanigans! They are on tumblr, but I'm not sure if they're OK being tagged, so I will just thank them anonymously for their help 🥰 Anyway, between the two of us, we were unable to find any studies specifically examining the relationship between pemmican (faulty or otherwise) and nephritis, a kidney disease diagnosed by the doctor who examined the Karluk survivors. To the best of our knowledge, no testing was ever done on the bodies of the deceased, but since the symptoms of the survivors lined up with the symptoms of nephritis, there's no compelling reason to doubt this diagnosis.

So how do we know the pemmican caused the nephritis? Officially, we don't! However, we have a LOT of evidence indicating that it did. Niven does a great job documenting all of this in The Ice Master. We know that people have been surviving on pemmican in the Arctic for centuries without developing nephritis. We know that in order to be a nutritionally balanced survival food, pemmican needs to have a specific ratio of protein to fat. We know that Stef did not personally oversee the production of his pemmican, as some previous expedition leaders had done (which is especially hilarious considering that later in his career he would conduct some disastrous experiments involving feeding pemmican to United States troops, so clearly he had an interest in the stuff). We know he did not submit it to purity testing to ensure that it was safe and nutritionally balanced because he was in too much of a hurry. We know that the men strongly preferred the Hudson's Bay brand of pemmican over the Underwood brand because the Underwood brand made them ill, and they reached a point where they couldn't choke down any more of it, even though they were starving. We know that high fat and/or protein diets without carbohydrates can be very bad for your kidneys, especially if you have other preexisting medical conditions (like, for example, a weakened immune system due to exposure and starvation and stress).

I am not a doctor and I do not play one on the Internet, but if I had to guess, I would say there was a problem with the Underwood pemmican, most likely that the fat to protein ratio was off or it was somehow contaminated. This is also the conclusion that Niven reached, and her research for this book was impeccable, so I have no reason to doubt her! We will, of course, never know with complete certainty what caused the nephritis, but the men clearly thought it was the pemmican, and I believe them.

I'm sure this is WAY more than you ever wanted to know about pemmican, but if you want to know more, I can hook you up with some more sources! If you're interested in polar foods in general, check out Hoosh by Jason C. Anthony, which focuses specifically on Antarctica, but there's definitely some overlap with the Arctic! And I hope this helps!

[catsofcalifornia]

Foxy Lady from Cat Crew California in Hollister, California

Click here for more information about adoption and other ways to help!

Click here for a link to Cat Crew California's main website.

Foxy is one of our beautiful special needs adult kitties. She came to our rescue as a stray, skinny and missing more than half of her fur. She was so trusting and loving from the beginning, thankful to be safe and off the streets.

This quirky, sassy, loving lady will win you over with her raspy meows, abnormally short fluffy tail, and spunky attitude.

She is learning how to be an indoor house kitty and sometimes gets over excited/stimulated while getting pets, which means she may swat or give a love nip. She has improved significantly in the last few months and her foster is actively working on showing her pets can be a calming treat.

This girl LOVES food. She has gone from skin and bones to a nice floofy chonk since joining our crew. She has also learned that cat beds are comfy and cat toys are not strange or scary.

Foxy was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease after being examined by our veterinarian. At this point, she requires no special diet or medications, but may have a shorter life expectancy than a healthy cat.

In her current foster home, Foxy has another senior kitty as her roommate and they coexist well. She also shows interest in other cats in the home. She has also met kittens, sniffs them, and walks away. We do not know how she feels about dogs. She would most likely do best as the only pet in the home or possibly with other cats with proper/patient introductions.

Foxy is approximately 5-8 years old. Foxy Lady is spayed, microchipped, and vaccinated.

[gelastocoridae]

Okay time for another PSA to not let your pet cats free roam outdoors ever. (If you think you don't have the space indoors for a cat to be happy or the willingness to give your cat what it needs indoors then don't have a cat. That means you can't take care of it so don't get it. Also, you clearly don't care about a cat's "natural needs" if you don't also keep it fully up to date on health check ups/vaccinations, give it enrichment and feed it only pure raw meat at home. They're obligate carnivores. Kibble is why they develop and die of kidney issues.)

They indisputably cause incredible damage to ecosystems and due to the way they became domesticated to eradicate pests, they are built to kill and maim indiscriminately and with extreme prejudice. Your pet cat does not hunt to eat when it has a safe bed and food at home. It hunts to slaughter. Because it's instincts say so, even if you think it's a chill lazy cat (what are the feather and mouse toys for but to satisfy those instincts?).

Whether or not a direct attack kills a small animal, it will most certainly still die of complications (like ruptured air sacs in birds -an incredibly painful way to go-, blood loss, disability, necrosis, cellulitis, and septicemia), countless serious infections from the cat's claws and mouth, inhalation of blood/stomach contents, or other infection from exposure to the environment. That is if it totters along on its will to survive, suffering, and manages to escape the next predator that comes along.

And if you couldn't care less about the local ecosystem and countless species that have gone extinct by cats under our very noses, you should worry about your cats' safety and the possibility of infection and parasites that they bring home to you and transmit to other pets, people, and homes they visit.

Cats will be run over or killed/injured by people, either by accident or intentionally (many people see any kind of small animal as target practice for their car or dart gun or whatever else and don't care if it's a cat. Maybe they even do it to protect their livestock, e.g. chickens, rabbits). Cats will get into fights with other animals. Cats will get eaten by coyotes. Cats will hide or shrug off injuries. Cats will meet other cats from different circumstances. Cats will carry rabies or be bitten by a vector animal and the only way to test for rabies is to take a slice of the brain (i.e., kill the animal in question). Cats will walk back into your yard and home with everything they picked up along the way, if not on their body then in their mouths after grooming and in their litterbox. Putting your cat, yourself, and others in that sort of danger is more neglectful than keeping them indoors. Letting them bring everything back to your home is negligent. Letting them infect and harm other animals is negligent ("dangerous" dogs who stay in their own yards get euthanized for less). It does not matter what part of the world you live in. Letting your pet cat outdoors is neglect and malicious behavior.

And in case you think you're not at risk from disease from your own cat or you want relevant, recent news to back this up, here's an article X , posted 07 August 2023, about a UK man contracting a completely unknown bacterium from a stray cat, initially resistant to certain antibiotics, that started to kill the infected flesh, and here's the scientific study about identifying the bacteria X

Who knows what your own cat gets up to outside or what other animals they meet?

[puppyexpressions]

First-Year Puppy Vaccinations

When you bring that fuzzy ball of puppy energy into your home, you know right away that your new puppy depends on you for, well, everything. It’s up to you to give your new puppy all the care they need every day. It can be a little intimidating — your puppy needs the best puppy food, plenty of attention,��puppy training, puppy-safe toys, puppy socialization, a comfortable place to sleep, and proper veterinary care. And that includes making sure to schedule puppy shots throughout your puppy’s first year.

Which Shots Do Puppies Need?

Going to the vet over several months for a series of puppy vaccinations—and then for boosters or titers throughout your dog’s life—may seem inconvenient, but the diseases that vaccinations will shield our puppies and dogs from are dangerous, potentially deadly, and, thankfully, mostly preventable.

We read about so many different dog vaccinations, for so many different illnesses, that it can sometimes be confusing to know which vaccinations puppies need and which puppy shots are important but optional. Here is an overview of the diseases that puppy vaccinations will help your pet avoid.

Bordetella Bronchiseptica

This highly infectious bacterium causes severe fits of coughing, whooping, vomiting, and, in rare cases, seizures and death. It is the primary cause of kennel cough. There are injectable and nasal spray vaccines available.

If you plan on boarding your puppy in the future, attending group training classes, or using dog daycare services, often proof of this vaccination will usually be required.

Canine Distemper

A severe and contagious disease caused by a virus that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal (GI), and nervous systems of dogs, raccoons, skunks, and other animals, distemper spreads through airborne exposure (through sneezing or coughing) from an infected animal. The virus can also be transmitted by shared food and water bowls and equipment. It causes discharges from the eyes and nose, fever, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, twitching, paralysis, and, often, death. This disease used to be known as “hard pad” because it causes the footpad to thicken and harden.

There is no cure for distemper. Treatment consists of supportive care and efforts to prevent secondary infections, control symptoms of vomiting, seizures and more. If the animal survives the symptoms, it is hoped that the dog’s immune system will have a chance to fight it off. Infected dogs can shed the virus for months.

Canine Hepatitis

Infectious canine hepatitis is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the liver, kidneys, spleen, lungs, and the eyes of the affected dog. This disease of the liver is caused by a virus that is unrelated to the human form of hepatitis. Symptoms range from a slight fever and congestion of the mucous membranes to vomiting, jaundice, stomach enlargement, and pain around the liver. Many dogs can overcome the mild form of the disease, but the severe form can kill. There is no cure, but doctors can treat the symptoms.

Canine Parainfluenza

This is one of several viruses that can contribute to kennel cough.

Coronavirus

The canine coronavirus is not the same virus that causes COVID-19 in people. COVID-19 is not thought to be a health threat to dogs, and there is no evidence it makes dogs sick. Canine coronavirus usually affects dogs’ gastrointestinal systems, though it can also cause respiratory infections. Signs include most GI symptoms, including loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Doctors can keep a dog hydrated, warm, and comfortable, and help alleviate nausea, but no drug kills coronaviruses.

Heartworm

When your puppy is around 12-to-16 weeks, talk to your vet about starting a heartworm preventive medication. Though there is no vaccine for heartworm in dogs, it is preventable with regularly administered heartworm medication that your veterinarian will prescribe.

The name is descriptive — these worms lodge in the right side of the heart and the pulmonary arteries (that send blood to the lungs), though they can travel through the rest of the body and sometimes invade the liver and kidneys. The worms can grow to 14 inches long and, if clumped together, block and injure organs.

A new heartworm infection often causes no symptoms, though dogs in later stages of the disease may cough, become lethargic, lose their appetite or have difficulty breathing. Infected dogs may tire after mild exercise. Unlike most of the conditions listed here, which are passed by urine, feces, and other body fluids, heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes. Therefore, diagnosis is made via a blood test and not a fecal exam.

Kennel Cough

Also known as infectious tracheobronchitis, kennel cough results from inflammation of the upper airways. It can be caused by bacterial, viral, or other infections, such as Bordetella and canine parainfluenza, and often involves multiple infections simultaneously. Usually, the disease is mild, causing bouts of harsh, dry coughing; sometimes it’s severe enough to spur retching and gagging, along with a loss of appetite. In rare cases, it can be deadly. It is easily spread between dogs kept close together, which is why it passes quickly through kennels. Antibiotics are usually not necessary, except in severe, chronic cases. Your vet may prescribe a dog-safe cough suppressant to help your dog (and you) get some rest, and some  dog-safe throat soothers can help make a dog more comfortable.

Leptospirosis

Unlike most diseases on this list, Leptospirosis is caused by bacteria, and some dogs may show no symptoms at all. Leptospirosis can be found worldwide in soil and water. It is a zoonotic disease, meaning that it can be spread from animals to people. When symptoms do appear, they can include fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, loss of appetite, severe weakness and lethargy, stiffness, jaundice, muscle pain, infertility, kidney failure (with or without liver failure). Antibiotics are effective, and the sooner they are given, the better.

Lyme Disease

Unlike the famous “bull’s-eye” rash that people exposed to Lyme disease often spot, no such telltale symptom occurs in dogs. Lyme disease (or borreliosis) is an infectious, tick-borne disease caused by a type of bacteria called a spirochete. Transmitted via ticks, an infected dog often starts limping, his lymph nodes swell, his temperature rises, and he stops eating. The disease can affect his heart, kidney, and joints, among other things, or lead to neurological disorders if left untreated. If diagnosed quickly, a course of antibiotics is extremely helpful, though relapses can occur months or even years later.

Talk to your vet about when your puppy will be old enough for tick preventatives. Once your puppy is old enough, keep your dog on tick preventative medication, topicals, or wearables to help stop ticks from biting in the first place.

Parvovirus

Parvo is a highly contagious virus that affects all dogs, but unvaccinated dogs and puppies less than four months of age are at the most risk to contract it. The virus attacks the gastrointestinal system and creates a loss of appetite, vomiting, fever, and often severe, bloody diarrhea. Extreme dehydration can come on rapidly and kill a dog within 48-to-72 hours, so prompt veterinary attention is crucial. There is no cure, so keeping the dog hydrated and controlling the secondary symptoms can keep him going until his immune system beats the illness.

Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease of mammals that invades the central nervous system, causing headache, anxiety, hallucinations, excessive drooling, fear of water, paralysis, and death. It is most often transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal. Treatment within hours of infection is essential, otherwise, death is highly likely. Most states require regular rabies vaccinations. Check with your vet about rabies vaccination laws and requirements in your area.

Talk with your veterinarian about more information and guidance on necessary and optional vaccinations.

Puppy Vaccination Schedule

The first thing to know is that there is not just one puppy vaccination schedule for all dogs. Factors such as which part of the country you live in, and your dog’s individual risk factors will come into play. Some dogs do not need every vaccine. This decision is between you and your veterinarian. Always discuss puppy vaccinations at your regularly scheduled appointments.

That said, here is a generally accepted guideline of the puppy vaccination schedule for the first year.

How Much Do Puppy Vaccinations Cost?

How much puppy vaccinations will cost depends on several factors. Where you live is a big one: Veterinarians in crowded and expensive urban areas will generally charge more than a rural vet in a small town. You may be able to find low-cost clinics providing rabies vaccinations sponsored by your local municipal government. But no matter what the range in costs, some vaccines, such as the “core vaccines” and rabies, are necessary.

The average cost can average around $75—100. These will include the core vaccines, which are administered in a series of three: at 6-, 12-, and 16 weeks old.

The core vaccines include the DHLPP (distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvo, and parainfluenza). Your pup will also need a rabies vaccination, which is usually around $15—20. (Some clinics include the cost of the rabies vaccination.)

Often animal shelters charge less for vaccines — approximately $20 — or are even free. If you acquired your dog from a shelter, he would most likely have been vaccinated, up until the age when you got him.

The initial puppy vaccination costs during the first year are higher than during adulthood.

Vaccinations for Adult Dogs: Boosters and Titers

There is a difference of opinion about having your adult dog vaccinated every year. Some vets believe too many vaccinations in adult dogs pose health risks. But others disagree, saying that yearly vaccinations will prevent dangerous diseases such as distemper. Talk with your vet to determine what kind of vaccination protocol works for you and your dog.

Many dog owners opt for titer tests before they administer annual vaccinations. Titer tests measure a dog’s immunity levels, and this can determine which, if any, vaccinations are necessary. One key exception to this is rabies: a titer test is not an option when it comes to the rabies vaccine. This vaccination is required by law across the United States. Your vet can tell you the schedule for your particular state, with boosters often lasting three years.

And it’s all worth it. For your effort and care your puppy will lavish you with lifelong love in return. This critical first year of her life is a fun and exciting time for both of you. As she grows physically, the wonderful bond between you will grow, too.

[petfurri]

Captopril for Dogs: Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects, and More

Captopril for Dogs

Captopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor commonly used in veterinary medicine to manage heart conditions in dogs, particularly congestive heart failure (CHF) and systemic hypertension (high blood pressure). Initially developed for human use, captopril has found its place in treating canine patients with cardiovascular issues, offering numerous benefits but also requiring careful administration and monitoring due to potential side effects.

Understanding Captopril and Its Mechanism of Action

Captopril works by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which is responsible for converting angiotensin I into angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor. Angiotensin II causes blood vessels to narrow, leading to increased blood pressure and making the heart work harder. By blocking this conversion, captopril allows blood vessels to relax and widen, reducing the workload on the heart and lowering blood pressure. This action is particularly beneficial for dogs suffering from CHF, as it helps to improve blood flow and reduce fluid buildup in the lungs and other tissues.

Benefits of Captopril for Dogs

Managing Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): CHF is a common condition in dogs, especially in older or certain breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Captopril helps manage CHF by reducing the resistance the heart faces when pumping blood, thus improving cardiac output and reducing symptoms like coughing, difficulty breathing, and lethargy.

Lowering Blood Pressure: For dogs diagnosed with systemic hypertension, captopril can effectively lower blood pressure, preventing damage to organs such as the kidneys, eyes, and brain, which can result from prolonged high blood pressure.

Improving Quality of Life: By easing the burden on the heart and lowering blood pressure, captopril can significantly improve a dog's overall quality of life. Dogs may exhibit increased energy levels, better appetite, and greater overall comfort as a result of treatment.

Potential Renal Protection: In some cases, captopril may offer renal protection by reducing the progression of kidney disease, particularly in dogs with proteinuria (protein in the urine), which is often associated with high blood pressure.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of captopril for dogs must be carefully determined by a veterinarian, as it varies depending on the dog's weight, the severity of the condition being treated, and the presence of any other health issues. Captopril is usually administered orally, with or without food, typically two to three times a day.

Typical Dosage: The usual starting dose is around 0.5 to 2 mg per kg of body weight, given every 8 to 12 hours. The dosage may be adjusted based on the dog’s response to the medication and any side effects observed.

Monitoring: Regular monitoring is crucial when a dog is on captopril. Blood pressure, kidney function (via blood tests for creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels), and electrolyte levels should be checked periodically to ensure the medication is working effectively without causing harm.

Potential Side Effects of Captopril

While captopril can be highly beneficial, it also carries the risk of side effects, particularly if not used correctly. Some of the potential side effects include:

Gastrointestinal Issues: Dogs may experience vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. These symptoms are usually mild but should be reported to the veterinarian if they persist.

Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure): As captopril lowers blood pressure, there is a risk that it may cause blood pressure to drop too low, leading to weakness, dizziness, or fainting. This is more likely to occur in dogs that are dehydrated or have other underlying health conditions.

Kidney Dysfunction: Captopril can affect kidney function, particularly in dogs with pre-existing kidney issues. It’s important to monitor kidney parameters closely during treatment to avoid exacerbating any renal problems.

Hyperkalemia (High Potassium Levels): Captopril can cause an increase in potassium levels, which can lead to dangerous heart rhythms if not managed properly. Regular blood tests are essential to monitor electrolyte levels.

Coughing: A persistent dry cough is a less common side effect but can occur due to the buildup of bradykinin, a substance that captopril can increase in the body.

Allergic Reactions: Though rare, some dogs may have an allergic reaction to captopril, manifesting as itching, rash, or swelling. Immediate veterinary attention is required in such cases.

Precautions and Considerations

Captopril should be used with caution in dogs with pre-existing kidney disease, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalances. It should not be used in dogs that are pregnant, as it can cause harm to the developing fetus. Additionally, it’s important to inform the veterinarian of any other medications the dog is taking, as captopril can interact with other drugs, including diuretics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), potentially leading to adverse effects.