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Ask the vet

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In Association with Vet Help Direct - an interactive website designed and run by qualified vets. Step-by-step questions help you to decide if you need to take your pet to the vets, and if so how urgently. If your dog isn't insured yet, find out what vets recommend you look into when choosing a policy. There is a directory of pet insurers so that you can then find the best policy for you and your dog. If you aren't already registered with a vet in your area there is a directory of local vet practices. Visit www.vethelpdirect.com

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Ask The Vet - Q&A Question I have a 16 year old dog that I am wondering if there is a blood test to determine if he is having kidney failure? Vickie Wells - Cardington, Oh, USA Answering questions: Susie Samuel MA VetMB MRCVS from Vet Help Direct Answer Hi Vickie, There are blood tests available that give a very good idea of how the kidneys are functioning. The classic two are ‘urea’ and ‘creatinine’. These are waste products that are usually removed by the kidneys. If the kidneys are not working properly they will be at higher levels than normal. Several other substances in the blood may also be at abnormal levels if the kidneys are not working, including potassium and sodium. Raised urea and creatinine can also be caused by dehydration so the hydration levels will need to be assessed. To find out why the kidneys are not functioning, further tests such as ultrasound and x-rays may be required. Many conditions can cause symptoms similar to kidney failure in older dogs. You will probably find that your vet wants to do a thorough examination of your dog before taking a general screening blood test; these blood tests typically include a variety of tests for common conditions including kidney failure. If you are suspicious of kidney failure you need to get your dog to the vets as soon as possible. It will be helpful for your vet if you also take a urine sample from your dog to the surgery. I do hope that your dog is feeling better soon. Kind regards, Susie Samuel MA VetMB MRCVS www.vethelpdirect.com  © D for Dog www.dfordog.com Back to Questions Previous Next   Only one question per week will be answered. Unanswered questions will be retained and may be selected at a later date at the vet's discretion. Disclaimer: 'Ask The Vet' is not intended to be used for as a substitute for visiting your vet. If your dog is showing any sign of poor health or discomfort please contact your own veterinary surgeon. If you are not sure how urgent the condition is use www.vethelpdirect.com to help you decide. Any opinions given in the answers to these questions are Ms Samuel's, they may not necessarily reflect the views of the veterinary profession in general or any other individual veterinary surgeon.   Pet First Aid Kit and Refills Padded Plastic Smart Collar Water Resistant Animal Paw Covers

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