Companion Animal Welfare

Dog Welfare: Chronic Kidney Disease Management

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is extremely common in older dogs and cats, with welfare management focused on slowing progression, managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life.

Key Facts

CKD affects approximately 10% of dogs and is most prevalent in older animals
Early-stage CKD is detectable through routine blood and urine testing before clinical signs appear
Phosphorus restriction in the diet significantly slows CKD progression
Subcutaneous fluid administration can be taught to owners for home management of dehydration
Quality of life assessment is central to decision-making in progressive CKD

Welfare Considerations

CKD causes progressive welfare deterioration through uraemia, nausea, hypertension and fluid imbalances. Early detection through annual health screening of senior dogs enables intervention before welfare is significantly compromised. Phosphorus restriction, blood pressure management and subcutaneous fluid therapy substantially extend good-quality life. Quality of life monitoring helps owners and vets make timely end-of-life decisions.

What You Can Do

Schedule annual wellness blood and urine screening for dogs over 7 years
Ask your vet about phosphorus-restricted diets if your dog has CKD
Learn to administer subcutaneous fluids at home if your vet recommends this
Use quality of life scoring tools to guide end-of-life decision-making