The veterinarian will take a complete medical history. He will ask about exposure to antifreeze, recent surgery or anesthesia, exposure to toxic drugs, and any previous illnesses. If kidney disease is suspected, tests may include a urinalysis, a complete blood count, X-rays of the abdomen, urine culture, ultrasound, kidney biopsy, and serum biochemistry tests.

Chronic kidney disease can leave dogs more susceptible to acute kidney failure, due to their weakened state. Proper treatment and regular monitoring will go a long way toward helping dogs with chronic kidney failure to have a quality life for many years after first detection. The conventional treatment may include:

• Antibiotics if the cause is bacterial

• Inducement, then control of vomiting

• Intravenous or subcutaneous fluid therapy

• Management of blood electrolyte abnormalities

• Monitoring urinary output and urine concentration

• Management of anemia

• Peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis

• Surgical removal of any blockages or obstructions

This is a life-threatening condition and dogs with acute kidney disease must be continuously monitored. Despite intensive therapy, some dogs will die anyway.