Section: Overview
Diagnosis
Your veterinarian will take a complete medical history specifically questioning exposure to ethylene glycol (anti-freeze), recent surgery or anesthesia (possibly causing decreased blood flow to the kidneys), exposure to drugs toxic to the kidneys (aminoglycoside group of antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and previous illnesses. The following diagnostic tests may also be necessary to recognize acute kidney failure and exclude other diseases. Tests may include:
Complete physical examination
Serum biochemistry tests
Urinalysis
Complete blood count
X-rays of the abdomen
Culture of the urine
Ultrasound examination
Kidney biopsy
Ethylene glycol test
Blood tests for certain infections
Treatment
ARF is a life-threatening serious condition that requires hospitalization and intensive treatment. Treatment consists of identification and correction of life-threatening problems while searching for the underlying cause of ARF. Treatment for ARF may include one or more of the following:
Induce vomiting
Intravenous fluids
Drugs that encourage urine production
Management of blood electrolyte abnormalities
Monitor urinary output
Control of vomiting
Management of anemia
Peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis
Treatment with 4-methylpyrazole (Antizol®) or ethanol
Home Care
Acute renal failure is a life-threatening condition and there is no effective home treatment. If you suspect your pet has this condition, or if you even suspect your pet may have consumed even a small amount of anti-freeze, you should call your veterinarian immediately. Your veterinarian may instruct you to induce vomiting before bringing your pet to the hospital.
Administer any medications prescribed by your veterinarian. Follow-up examinations and laboratory tests are important to assess your pet's response to treatment. Allow free access to fresh clean water.
Preventative Care
Avoid exposure to ethylene glycol (anti-freeze), and avoid exposure to drugs known to be toxic to the kidney (e.g. aminoglycoside antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Don't allow dogs to roam outside unattended.
Vaccinate your dog for leptospirosis as recommended by your veterinarian. This vaccine usually is included in routine vaccination protocols.
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