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Oliver - Maltese
My 15 year old Maltese Oliver was diagnosed with kidney failure on April 7th, 2014. He spent two in a half days at the pet clinic being flushed of all the toxins and hooked up to IV's. His BUN was 157 at the time he was admitted, but bloodwork was done the morning of his release- BUN now is 75 (still too high), leveled back to normal. Vet told me to make him comfortable and that he basically had 2-3 months left. I am heartbroken. Since I brought Oliver home on April 9th, he has been eating, drinking water, walking and acting normal. He is more active than ever before. He even looks better. He is only a KD diet, and a supplement. He will see the vet this weekend for a recheck. I am also taking a holistic approach to this and already have a script drawn up for him for the vet to review. He is not throwing up and does not have ulcers. The day I actually rushed him to the vet he was looking sick and limp. Realistically I understand that Oliver is 15 and I have been blessed to have a dog this long. I want to take the holistic approach to make him more comfortable and for the progression of this disease to slow down. I have been doing major research since he was diagnosed. It breaks my heart to read the stories.
Hello. I am very sorry to hear about Oliver's diagnosis. You clearly have been given some dreadful news. It is heartbreaking, I know. While a holistic approach is your choice - and you have every right to take that path - I would consider some things that will help Oliver feel more comfortable over the remaining time he has left. First, talk to you vet about a phosphate binder, assuming his phosphate levels are normal. This will help him substantially. Also, once he begins refusing food (it will happen), then ask your vet about anti-nausea medication. Keeping him hydrated is a priority, so consider undertaking fluid therapy at home - again, this is something your vet can instruct you and assist you with.
As for diet, well, the KD food is the best right now, as it will be low in protein (but with enough protein to utilize carbohydrates and fats). You can try him on high fat foods, if he refuses the KD diet - so things like pork, dark meat chicken with the skin on, hamburger without any onion or herbs added. Try to keep sodium to a minimum - so use purified water for his drinking bowl (some water companies add sodium to soften the supply).
You have in many ways done well to have Oliver to this good age, not that it makes this situation any easier. You are amongst friends on this forum. Many of us have been where you are right now, and we empathize. Our dogs are our world - and kidney disease is one of the hardest illnesses to deal with. The vet and you have done well to get his BUN levels down from such an extreme high. Did they tell you what his creatinine level is?
Cyber hugs. Tony x
As for diet, well, the KD food is the best right now, as it will be low in protein (but with enough protein to utilize carbohydrates and fats). You can try him on high fat foods, if he refuses the KD diet - so things like pork, dark meat chicken with the skin on, hamburger without any onion or herbs added. Try to keep sodium to a minimum - so use purified water for his drinking bowl (some water companies add sodium to soften the supply).
You have in many ways done well to have Oliver to this good age, not that it makes this situation any easier. You are amongst friends on this forum. Many of us have been where you are right now, and we empathize. Our dogs are our world - and kidney disease is one of the hardest illnesses to deal with. The vet and you have done well to get his BUN levels down from such an extreme high. Did they tell you what his creatinine level is?
Cyber hugs. Tony x
Thank you so very much for the response.
I will check his blood results. I have all the blood work, plus some other documentation.
I will get back to you soon.
Again, your words mean a lot to me.
Hugs,
I will check his blood results. I have all the blood work, plus some other documentation.
I will get back to you soon.
Again, your words mean a lot to me.
Hugs,
I lost my beagle 8 weeks ago from Kidney Failure. She suffered from CKD for 13 months before she finally lost her battle. The last month was torture. Unfortunately, once Daisy was admitted into the pet hospital for 5 days I knew the end was a lot nearer. She lasted only 3 weeks after the stay.
As long as Oliver is eating and drinking is a good sign for now. As Tony said, one day he will refuse food. I never thought my beagle, the food queen would ever turn away food. But it happens and it happens fast. Be patient and have faith that he will tell you when it is time.
I said this when Daisy was sick and I always remind friends when their pets are sick... make sure the good days outweigh the bad.
Take care!
As long as Oliver is eating and drinking is a good sign for now. As Tony said, one day he will refuse food. I never thought my beagle, the food queen would ever turn away food. But it happens and it happens fast. Be patient and have faith that he will tell you when it is time.
I said this when Daisy was sick and I always remind friends when their pets are sick... make sure the good days outweigh the bad.
Take care!
Tony,
Thank you for providing insightful information. I have been doing research myself since Oliver was diagnosed with kidney failure. The first week I could not think, and now that he is home with me, I have been able to focus more and be “pro-active” for the time he has with me.
Let me start by introducing myself, my name is Elsa. When I happen to find this site, I created my profile with limited information since I was doing this from work and basically my mind was all over the place.
As I mentioned when he became ill on 4/5 and his vet did blood work his BUN was 157 it is now 75/ Creatinine was 2.1 it is now 1.4, You mention Phosphates….do you mean Phosphorus? If so, then it is 5.8. Not sure if I am reading all his blood work correctly.
I mentioned Holistic approach, since Oliver’s vet had advised that perhaps I should consider herbal remedies. I am in the fitness industry and a few of my friends are involved in the holistic field. I know that with Oliver’s kidney failure I cannot turn the clock back. My approach is to prevent the toxins from building up at a fast rate and to also not have his kidneys work as hard.
I had another Maltese, who had a heart murmur #8, enlarged heart, mitral valve disease. His cardiologist told me that he had a 1% survival rate. Well, guess what he lived three more years.
His demise was not from heart failure but from Doggie Alzehmiers. He took medication and lived for nine months as expected.
Back to Oliver, he continues to eat, drink and is pretty active. But, I do know this will change in the near future. How soon I do not know. I will see the vet on Saturday for a recheck, and will definitely discuss with her what you have mentioned. If anything the info you have provided has helped me tremendously. I will keep you posted. Again, Thank you.
Hugs,
Elsa
Thank you for providing insightful information. I have been doing research myself since Oliver was diagnosed with kidney failure. The first week I could not think, and now that he is home with me, I have been able to focus more and be “pro-active” for the time he has with me.
Let me start by introducing myself, my name is Elsa. When I happen to find this site, I created my profile with limited information since I was doing this from work and basically my mind was all over the place.
As I mentioned when he became ill on 4/5 and his vet did blood work his BUN was 157 it is now 75/ Creatinine was 2.1 it is now 1.4, You mention Phosphates….do you mean Phosphorus? If so, then it is 5.8. Not sure if I am reading all his blood work correctly.
I mentioned Holistic approach, since Oliver’s vet had advised that perhaps I should consider herbal remedies. I am in the fitness industry and a few of my friends are involved in the holistic field. I know that with Oliver’s kidney failure I cannot turn the clock back. My approach is to prevent the toxins from building up at a fast rate and to also not have his kidneys work as hard.
I had another Maltese, who had a heart murmur #8, enlarged heart, mitral valve disease. His cardiologist told me that he had a 1% survival rate. Well, guess what he lived three more years.
His demise was not from heart failure but from Doggie Alzehmiers. He took medication and lived for nine months as expected.
Back to Oliver, he continues to eat, drink and is pretty active. But, I do know this will change in the near future. How soon I do not know. I will see the vet on Saturday for a recheck, and will definitely discuss with her what you have mentioned. If anything the info you have provided has helped me tremendously. I will keep you posted. Again, Thank you.
Hugs,
Elsa
I decided when Oliver was diagnosed that once he started to decline in health I would put him to sleep. I do not want to see my little man suffer.
He is 15 years old and that is a long time for a dog to be around. I have blessed to have him with me 24/7---- he comes with me to work and everywhere else. Its one day at a time for Oliver and I.
He is 15 years old and that is a long time for a dog to be around. I have blessed to have him with me 24/7---- he comes with me to work and everywhere else. Its one day at a time for Oliver and I.
Oliver's doing pretty well then with his levels being somewhat normal. I hate to use the word normal because the ER vet made me so mad when Daisy was in their care. He'd say "we'll try to get her back to normal"... unfortunately, her normal was nowhere close to their 'normal'...
When I lost Daisy, her creatinine had somewhat plateaued at 4.0, but her phosphorus was over 16. She had a rough month.. when we admitted her to the ER hospital, her creatinine was 6.6. Then down to 4.2 then back up a day later to 5.4. That's when I decided to stop pumping her with fluids and bring her home for SQ treatment and lots of love. I'm lucky that my vet treated Daisy and not just her number.
When I lost Daisy, her creatinine had somewhat plateaued at 4.0, but her phosphorus was over 16. She had a rough month.. when we admitted her to the ER hospital, her creatinine was 6.6. Then down to 4.2 then back up a day later to 5.4. That's when I decided to stop pumping her with fluids and bring her home for SQ treatment and lots of love. I'm lucky that my vet treated Daisy and not just her number.
Well, Oliver is acting better than ever before. His vet actually thought he was not going to make it the first night at the clinic. She said it was a miracle and was amazed that his numbers changed. He is a small Maltese, only weighs 2.9 lbs. I am hoping with his great appetite right now and drinking lots of water....that he will show he has gained some weight by Saturday when he sees the vet. I picked up some KD diet from the vet on Tuesday and of course brought Oliver with me.....everyone was amazed on how different he looked. The tech said he looked like a "new dog"!!
Thank you so much for your feedback. I'm not ready to lose Oliver yet.
When I lost my other Maltese (Rio) it was horrible. Its been six years and I do think of him often. The pain lessens but the memories live on forever. Oliver's vet even called me to see how he was doing two days after being released from the pet clinic. She was very concerned about him. We want what is best for him.
Thank you so much for your feedback. I'm not ready to lose Oliver yet.
When I lost my other Maltese (Rio) it was horrible. Its been six years and I do think of him often. The pain lessens but the memories live on forever. Oliver's vet even called me to see how he was doing two days after being released from the pet clinic. She was very concerned about him. We want what is best for him.
Tony,
I feel better after reading your comment :) I'm making notes and have a list of supplements I want to talk to the vet about. She mentioned Fish Oil...so I will definitely bring that up. Everything happened so quickly, that I literally could not concentrate. As I mentioned before I am more focus now and know how to proceed. Spoonful of chopped cabbage....will try that.
I will definitely stay on this forum. I am learning from all of you and you have all provided emotional support. Oliver is napping here in my office at work - a huge plus that we are together 24/7 and his vet is a few minutes away. He had a huge appetite this morning and lunch as well. I will report back on Saturday after his vet visit. Hugs to all.
I feel better after reading your comment :) I'm making notes and have a list of supplements I want to talk to the vet about. She mentioned Fish Oil...so I will definitely bring that up. Everything happened so quickly, that I literally could not concentrate. As I mentioned before I am more focus now and know how to proceed. Spoonful of chopped cabbage....will try that.
I will definitely stay on this forum. I am learning from all of you and you have all provided emotional support. Oliver is napping here in my office at work - a huge plus that we are together 24/7 and his vet is a few minutes away. He had a huge appetite this morning and lunch as well. I will report back on Saturday after his vet visit. Hugs to all.
Welcome....I too, am sorry about your Oliver...You've done a wonderful job with him!
I have a dog named Oliver, (A small white Poodle). He's actually "The Spawn of Satan!", but we have learned to deal w/it! Never seen a dog this mean, but would never rehome him (Or any other) for any reason! He's mine till death, so to speak!
I'm curious if anything else on his blood panel was out of range? Either too low OR too high?
I'm putting together thoughts (On paper) on KD from Bloodwork panel results, other than BUN, creatinine & phosphorus....When you get time, please, let me know...
Also, can you share what you've fed him all these years? That's also part of my curiousity for comparisons.....Was he regularly vaccinated or not, would help me too...Thanks, Karla
I have a dog named Oliver, (A small white Poodle). He's actually "The Spawn of Satan!", but we have learned to deal w/it! Never seen a dog this mean, but would never rehome him (Or any other) for any reason! He's mine till death, so to speak!
I'm curious if anything else on his blood panel was out of range? Either too low OR too high?
I'm putting together thoughts (On paper) on KD from Bloodwork panel results, other than BUN, creatinine & phosphorus....When you get time, please, let me know...
Also, can you share what you've fed him all these years? That's also part of my curiousity for comparisons.....Was he regularly vaccinated or not, would help me too...Thanks, Karla
Let me gather all my paperwork and I will share the info with you.
I have always feed my Maltese boiled chicken, with veggies. Oliver loves broccoli. Purified water, kibble was Hills Science diet. He was always vaccinated right up until two three years ago. I stopped because he was always with me and never around other dogs. He had his teeth cleaned in September and had a complete blood panel done and the results were great. So, between September and April not sure what happened. He was due for his physical in April but it was bumped up due to what recently happened. Once he turned 10 it was physicals twice a year with dental cleaning. I will check the blood work tonight and provide more info.
Hugs
I have always feed my Maltese boiled chicken, with veggies. Oliver loves broccoli. Purified water, kibble was Hills Science diet. He was always vaccinated right up until two three years ago. I stopped because he was always with me and never around other dogs. He had his teeth cleaned in September and had a complete blood panel done and the results were great. So, between September and April not sure what happened. He was due for his physical in April but it was bumped up due to what recently happened. Once he turned 10 it was physicals twice a year with dental cleaning. I will check the blood work tonight and provide more info.
Hugs
Hope everyone had a lovely Easter.
Well, Oliver had his blood work done last Saturday, this was for his kidney values. His BUN is now 63 and his Creatinine is 1.4. Next month he will have a full blood panel done to check potassium levels, etc.
The vet called me last night, and said she was amazed on how Oliver has bounced back so quickly. She said most dogs don't. Oliver has been eating, drinking water and has been pretty active. She actually said its like he has a new lease on life. She did say she estimates he only has 2-3 months left- in fact she advised me of this when he was hospitalized. She did say that she is only estimating. I give her credit for being cautious. She also said she hopes she is wrong. But, of course its all what shows in the blood tests. I am taking each day as it comes and cherishing each day with Oliver.
Well, Oliver had his blood work done last Saturday, this was for his kidney values. His BUN is now 63 and his Creatinine is 1.4. Next month he will have a full blood panel done to check potassium levels, etc.
The vet called me last night, and said she was amazed on how Oliver has bounced back so quickly. She said most dogs don't. Oliver has been eating, drinking water and has been pretty active. She actually said its like he has a new lease on life. She did say she estimates he only has 2-3 months left- in fact she advised me of this when he was hospitalized. She did say that she is only estimating. I give her credit for being cautious. She also said she hopes she is wrong. But, of course its all what shows in the blood tests. I am taking each day as it comes and cherishing each day with Oliver.
That's how kidney disease works... it's like a roller coaster. One month good, one month bad, one week good, one week bad. Keep an eye on him... and make sure that his good days are always outweighing the bad. Fingers crossed Oliver's levels stay down :)
Hi again. I am so pleased about Oliver. It is quite extraordinary. Your vet is right to be cautious and they are obviously making sure you are aware that things can turn bad quite quickly, so as not to build your hopes up too much, but for now ... brilliant results. This forum sometimes needs good news just to counter the usual bad news - and Oliver has provided us with it. I am so pleased for both of you.
The best fish oil is salmon oil, because it is rich in omega-3 and doesn't have anything that will add stress to the kidneys (which some other fish oils have).
One day at a time is exactly the right approach. Enjoy this time with Oliver. As a sideline issue ... I think the dental hygiene work you have undertaken with Oliver is probably crucial, because it is said bad teeth and bad mouth hygiene is certainly a major contributor to kidney issues, because bacteria follows into the gut and the bloodstream and causes immense problems. It could be he has bounced back partly because his teeth and gums are in good shape, putting less stress on the kidneys. Whatever the reason, you have done a great job, so just keep doing what you're doing.
Tony x
The best fish oil is salmon oil, because it is rich in omega-3 and doesn't have anything that will add stress to the kidneys (which some other fish oils have).
One day at a time is exactly the right approach. Enjoy this time with Oliver. As a sideline issue ... I think the dental hygiene work you have undertaken with Oliver is probably crucial, because it is said bad teeth and bad mouth hygiene is certainly a major contributor to kidney issues, because bacteria follows into the gut and the bloodstream and causes immense problems. It could be he has bounced back partly because his teeth and gums are in good shape, putting less stress on the kidneys. Whatever the reason, you have done a great job, so just keep doing what you're doing.
Tony x
Day 16 since Oliver was discharged from the clinic. He continues to be alert, eating (in fact he barks at me when he wants more KD). He drinks water and tinkles, but to be honest it isn't anymore or less than before he was admitted to the clinic. Dr. Schultz will do another blood test on May 5th.
She calls me every week to inquiry about Oliver, and I tell her " he is walking, eating and acting normal". I am sure he has gained more weight :)
Just taking each day as it comes and hoping he continues on this path.
I will check in again on May 5th. Take Care
She calls me every week to inquiry about Oliver, and I tell her " he is walking, eating and acting normal". I am sure he has gained more weight :)
Just taking each day as it comes and hoping he continues on this path.
I will check in again on May 5th. Take Care
Hi Karla,
I am very happy as well. He just had his third meal. I've been doing so much research since he was diagnosed, that I think now I will continue with this great forum, keep working with the vet to provide Oliver all we can do at this time. I was so drained from the day all this happened. The vet calling me when she got the blood results on April 7th, and she said "bring Oliver in now- he has severe kidney failure"! I was so lucky that I work nearby the vet and it was in her hands to care for him. Now, its just making sure he eats and drinks and takes his renal essentials supplements. Oliver and I went to bed early on Tuesday 8pm...I was mentally drained. Fine now.. I hope.
I am very happy as well. He just had his third meal. I've been doing so much research since he was diagnosed, that I think now I will continue with this great forum, keep working with the vet to provide Oliver all we can do at this time. I was so drained from the day all this happened. The vet calling me when she got the blood results on April 7th, and she said "bring Oliver in now- he has severe kidney failure"! I was so lucky that I work nearby the vet and it was in her hands to care for him. Now, its just making sure he eats and drinks and takes his renal essentials supplements. Oliver and I went to bed early on Tuesday 8pm...I was mentally drained. Fine now.. I hope.
Oliver is so lucky. You have been extraordinary in caring for him - and the results must be so rewarding. You are right, this disease is exhausting, stressful and distressing. You must remember to take care of yourself, as well as for Oliver, because there will be times when things become intense ... so if you can, take some time out to relax, rest and distract your attention onto more peaceful things.
I'm delighted Oliver is asking for food. It's what we all want to see in our best friends. It's the perfect result and I'm so pleased. Have a lovely evening.
Tony x
I'm delighted Oliver is asking for food. It's what we all want to see in our best friends. It's the perfect result and I'm so pleased. Have a lovely evening.
Tony x
Hi Tony,
Day 21 since Oliver's discharge from the hospital. He continues to eat, drink. He walks around the house and at work :) He growls when he sees or hears another dog. So far, Oliver is doing fine. Next Monday's blood test will provide me with more insight to his condition. I have all my questions lined up for the vet- Thanks to you I am more informed. Oliver gained 4 ounces since he has been home. Hoping for the best for my little man !!
Take Care....until next Monday.
Day 21 since Oliver's discharge from the hospital. He continues to eat, drink. He walks around the house and at work :) He growls when he sees or hears another dog. So far, Oliver is doing fine. Next Monday's blood test will provide me with more insight to his condition. I have all my questions lined up for the vet- Thanks to you I am more informed. Oliver gained 4 ounces since he has been home. Hoping for the best for my little man !!
Take Care....until next Monday.
Hi. It's great to hear the good news. When forum friends and their best friends are doing well, it's inspirational. I'm so pleased. Keep up the brilliant work you are doing. Cyber hugs to you and Oliver. Tony x
Oliver had his blood test yesterday and Dr.Schultz called me this morning with the results. All kidney levels are normal :) She is totally amazed.
His BUN is 23, Creatine is 1.1 He will continue eating the KD food. She said he is very hydrated, so the water he is drinking has been enough.
He is due for a blood test in about a month. She said Oliver is a poster child ! She is in total shock. I am very happy that Oliver continues to thrive. She also said at his age of 15 it is very impressive.
Thank you all for the support.
His BUN is 23, Creatine is 1.1 He will continue eating the KD food. She said he is very hydrated, so the water he is drinking has been enough.
He is due for a blood test in about a month. She said Oliver is a poster child ! She is in total shock. I am very happy that Oliver continues to thrive. She also said at his age of 15 it is very impressive.
Thank you all for the support.
Thank you ! I can't believe it nor can Dr. Schultz. Will continue on this forum with my updates....thanks again.
Hugs from Oliver
I(I would post a pic of Oliver, but I don't know how )
Hugs from Oliver
I(I would post a pic of Oliver, but I don't know how )
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The blood levels are quite amazingly good, for now, so I think the diet is spot-on. You might want to consider adding some natural supplements ... omega-3 oil is one useful thing - and a spoonful of chopped cabbage every other day (fermentable fiber) which acts as a nitrogen trap. Things like this can be really positive in the early to mid period of canine kidney failure.
Stay with us here on the forum ... we are all on a learning curve here, and occasionally someone else's experience rings a familiar bell, which means we help each other with information and support. So far, I think Oliver is doing very well.
Tony x