As pet parents in Marietta, Georgia, would all like to make our furry friends stay happy and healthy as long as possible. But did you know that kidney disease is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting older dogs? And even younger pets are not fully out of danger, particularly when some lifestyle, dietary or environmental causes are involved.
We contacted the reliable experts of Marietta’s trusted veterinary professionals to find out more about the causes of kidney disease in dogs, as well as what the vet of our community can do to prevent and address it. This is what all dog owners in Woodstock or the surrounding area need to know.
What Is Kidney Disease in Dogs?
Kidneys are extremely crucial to the health of your dog. They assist in filtering wastes, maintaining blood pressure, balancing fluids, and in production of valuable hormones. When the kidneys lose their ability to work effectively either abruptly (acute) or gradually (chronic), waste accumulates in the body, and it causes severe health complications.
Veterinarians in Marietta note that more prevalent and likely to progress slowly is chronic kidney disease (CKD) especially in older dogs. Regardless, when the condition is diagnosed at an early stage, it is possible to considerably enhance the quality of life of your pet.
Top Causes of Kidney Disease in Dogs (As Observed by Marietta Vets)
1. Aging and Breed Predisposition
A majority of the dogs that develop kidney disease are past the age of seven. Other breeds that have higher susceptibility to developing CKD include Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, and Shih Tzus, among others, and early screening is therefore even more essential.
2. Poor Diet and Overly Processed Food
Feeding your dog high-sodium or protein-heavy commercial food without vet guidance can stress the kidneys over time. In Marietta, many pet parents are shifting toward more nutrient-balanced homemade diets to support kidney health.
Looking for a kidney-friendly diet? Check out this helpful guide on homemade dog food for kidney disease to get started.
3. Toxin Exposure
Household products such as antifreeze, cleaning solutions, grapes and raisins can harm the kidneys of your dog. These should always be out of reach particularly in hot Marietta summers when the dogs may wander around the garages or yards.
4. Underlying Health Conditions
Dogs having diabeties, urinary tract infection, or dental disease that is not treated are more susceptible. The infections may get access to kidneys and create permanent damage.
5. Dehydration and Medications
The stress on the kidneys can also be caused by prolonged dehydration and the long use of some medicines, in particular, pain relievers. Always carry water to give your dog, particularly during outdoor activities around Marietta’s parks and trails.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Early detection is key. Local vets recommend bringing your dog in for a checkup if you notice:
- Excessive thirst or urination
- Vomiting or lack of appetite
- Weight loss
- Lethargy
- Bad breath
If you live in Marietta or nearby areas like Woodstock or Smyrna, don’t wait, reach out to Beyond Pets, a Marietta veterinary clinic, at the first sign of concern.
How Marietta Vets Recommend Managing Kidney Health
Veterinarians across Marietta agree that customized care makes a huge difference. This often includes:
- Regular blood and urine tests
- Kidney-safe diets tailored to your dog’s condition
- Avoiding unnecessary medications
- Modifications to lifestyle, such as stress reduction and hydration
If you’re unsure where to start, Beyond Pets offers personalized dietary consultations for pet owners in Marietta. We work with you to create a nutrition plan based on your dog’s health status and preferences.
Why Diet Plays a Critical Role
Diet to your dog is not simply about keeping the weight on, but it is a direct input to the functioning of the organs. Low-phosphorus, moderate-protein diets with regulated quantities of sodium are usually suggested by Marietta pet nutritionists as they might lessen the burden on the kidneys.
However, it may be dangerous to change to a kidney-friendly diet without any instructions. All dogs are individuals- what is good for one may not be good for another.
Final Tips from Marietta’s Trusted Vets
Whether you’ve just moved to Marietta or have lived here for years with your pup, staying informed is your best defense against chronic diseases. Here are a few final tips from local experts:
- Schedule routine vet checkups at least once a year.
- Invest in high-quality dog food or custom meals designed for kidney health.
- Stay hydrated—especially in warmer Georgia months.
- Watch for symptoms and act quickly if anything seems off.
Conclusion
Kidney disease might feel like an insurmountable problem initially; however, in case of early treatment and proper assistance, it can be easily handled. We at Beyond Pets are here to assist you through the whole process. Whether through our caring veterinary team or customized nutrition plans, we have the local resources and care dog owners in Marietta require to manage the kidney health of their pets.
