Ingredients light rye flour, tapioca flour, pure pumpkin, cinnamon, omega 3 fish oil, canola oilGuaranteed Analysis Protein (Min) 6.8% Phosphorus 0.1% Fat (Min) 2.2% Fiber (Min) 1.2% Moisture (Max) 9.0% Omega 3 0.2% Omega 6 0.3% Ash 0.9% Product Dimensions 7.8 x 5.8 x 2.5 inches ; 1 pound Directions Feed as desired to reward your dog for being good!Legal Disclaimer Not intended to be food, supplements, or medicine
In late 2002 we had decided the time was right to finally bring a dog into our home, and decided upon a Golden Retriever. When we went to the breeder we picked Mattie up and she snuggled her face right into the crook of my neck and I was smitten. We left that day thinking that we had picked out the most perfect puppy, but it would soon be clear that she picked us. When we returned to the breeder to bring her home the breeder informed us that Matties true personality had come out – it seems that our loving, cuddly puppy had developed an independent streak. On New Years Eve we brought home our fluffy golden retriever puppy, Mattie. She was a joy from the minute we had her, however after a few too many sleepless nights and accidents in the house, we knew something was not right. After a few months of veterinary visits, and two vets, we knew the reason for Matties incontinence. She was born with juvenile renal disease – commonly known as kidney disease. While the news was devastating, we decided from that point on it was our responsibility and honor to give Mattie the best life possible. The average life span for a dog born with kidney disease is 2-5 years so these were going to be the best 2-5 years of Matties life. Gone were the rules about not getting on the couch or sleeping in our bed – she ruled the house and knew it!
The week before Valentines Day 2006, Mattie started to refuse take her medication. We always promised her that when she didnt want to take it anymore, we were not going to make her. The truth was that this medication would never cure her of her kidney disease – when she decided that she was done taking it that would be our sign that we had to start saying goodbye. It was around this time that she also refused her special dietary food and treats, so we gave her whatever she would eat. She no longer ran to greet us at the door when we came home, and our regular walks were now just time to sit outside. On Monday, February 13, 2006 Mattie stopped eating and began dry heaving. The night of February 14, 2006, my husband and I sat with Mattie on the living room floor (she no longer had the energy to jump on the couch) and had to face the discussion we had been putting off for so long. We knew that the time had come to make the difficult decision to let Mattie be free of her pain. There was, of course, a part of us that wanted to believe that she would get better, but deep down we knew that she would not. The vet always told us that when it was time, we would know, and Mattie was clearly telling us it was time. We spent the morning of February 17th outside. Mattie seemed to ask us to just sit and enjoy the breeze one last time. At this point she was too weak to walk and just laid next to us. It was during this time that Mattie gave us the most amazing gift. She somehow found the strength to come up to both of us individually and lean on us, saying goodbye and letting us know that it was okay to let go. A part of her knew how hard we were struggling and she found the strength in her own way to say thank you for everything, I love you and now its time to let me go. And we did.
We truly believe that Mattie knew she was sick as a puppy and knew that we would take care of her no matter what, and that is why she chose us the day we thought we were picking her out. It is profound how much Mattie has touched not only our lives, but also the lives of everyone she knew. Matties life was short, but meaningful. She was sick from the day she was born, but lived life to the fullest. She found such joy in tearing apart a stick or a toy. She swam or dove into a snow pile every chance she got, as if she knew she might not get the same opportunity again. Those of you who love a dog know that they are a very important part of your life, and if you let them, they will teach you life lessons and help you to realize what is really important. Enjoying a sunny day, watching the birds fly and giving unconditional love to those around you – simple lessons but true. We still love Mattie with all of our hearts, and will honor her memory every chance we get. It is a very special animal that can touch so many peoples hearts, and Mattie is one of those animals. We were so lucky to have had her in our lives for three years, and want to keep her memory alive for years to come.
Morris Animal Foundation helps animals enjoy longer, healthier lives. We advance health and welfare research that protects, treats and cures companion animals, horses and wildlife worldwide. Founded by a visionary veterinarian in 1948, Morris Animal Foundation today is a world leader in advancing veterinary research that protects, treats and cures animals on every continent. The Foundation has funded more than 1,600 studies, many of which have led to animal health breakthroughs in diagnostics, treatments, prevention and cures.
IDEXX is a leader in pet healthcare innovation, serving practicing veterinarians around the world with a broad range of diagnostic and information technology-based products and services. IDEXX products enhance the ability of veterinarians to provide advanced medical care, improve staff efficiency and to build more economically successful practices. IDEXX invented a new test detect the biomarker SDMA which indicates the presence of kidney disease long before creatinine, the previous gold standard, which means extended lifespan for your pets if treated earlier in life. We encourage everyone to ask your Vet to test your pet using IDEXXs chemistry panel which includes the SDMA test for free.
IRIS is the International Renal Interest Society. IRIS was created to advance the scientific understanding of kidney disease in small animals. One of the organizations primary objectives is to establish an internationally recognized set of guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of renal disease in small animals.
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), established in 1863, is a not-for-profit association representing more than 80,000 veterinarians working in private and corporate practice, government, industry, academia, and uniformed services. Structured to work for its members, the AVMA acts as a collective voice for its membership and for the profession. ␡
Acceptable Foods and Ingredients
A dog with kidney disease will have specific dietary adjustments. The three most common ingredients that need to be monitored are:
This applies to regular meals and treats. All kidney disease dog foods are formulated to be low in these three ingredients, and the same should apply to whatever treats you choose.
Note that its recommended that you do not give your pet any treats until the transition to your dogs new therapeutic diet for kidney disease is complete.
Once your pet has successfully adjusted to its new meal plan, you can add in low protein dog treats that represent no more than 10% of a dogs recommended daily caloric intake.
A canine nutritionist or vet can provide you with that calorie guideline.
For dogs with kidney disease on a low protein meal plan, popular edible chews like rawhide and pigs ears are not recommended.
You dont have to buy commercial dog treats for kidney disease. There are some things in your refrigerator-that many dogs love, and they will go well with your pets new low protein diet.
Some of those foods include:
Similarly, you can choose to feed your dog a homemade diet thats specifically made for kidney disease. However, going this route means more work for you during the initial stages.
Its essential to consult with a vet or canine nutritionist and make sure you know how much to feed a dog and what supplements to include so the diet is well-balanced.
Raw Paws Natural Sweet Potato Low Protein Dog Treats Crude Protein: 2%
Find it on Amazon ($12.99, 6 oz bag) Unavailable on Chewy
If prescription dog treats (which require veterinary approval) are not an option, the Raw Paws treats are a great alternative.
Vegetarian, grain-free, low in calories, low in phosphorus, and low in protein (only 4.2%), these are perfect for dogs with kidney problems.
They have only one ingredient – dehydrated sweet potato, a complex carbohydrate thats highly digestible for dogs. Most pups enjoy the flavor, and its a great source of beta-carotene (Vitamin A).
You may think a dog will not enjoy something without any protein in it at all, but its unlikely to be the case with these. Their smell, sweet taste, and crunchy texture actually make them very appealing.
Theyre also tiny in size, which means you can give more of these throughout the day or use them for training. Our dogs loved these treats made in the USA by a company with a good reputation.
Zesty Paws Cranberry for Dogs Treats Crude Protein: 0%
Zesty Paws Cranberry for dogs is more of a chew supplement than a treat, but most dogs will find them delicious, unlike many other supplements.
These kidney-friendly dog chews focus on UT support, kidney function, and a dogs overall immune system.
Theyre designed with ingredients that wont strain the kidneys or bladder, and in fact, support their health. There are no artificial flavors, preservatives, corn, grain, or soy. 10,207 Reviews
Cranberries were shown in studies to promote urinary and kidney health in both humans and animals. So each Zesty Paws cranberry dog chew contains 200mg of cranberry concentrate.
Other ingredients that promote comfortable urination and detoxification in dogs include marshmallow root, licorice root, nettle seed, and astragalus. This combination also offers inflammation relief.
The product is FDA registered, and GMP certified in the U.S. Zesty Paws has long been one of our favorite brands of dog treats and supplements, and many other pet owners share the same view.
FAQ
What treats are OK for dogs with kidney disease?
What can my dog with kidney disease eat?
Is chicken good for dogs with kidney disease?