2021 Success Story Brandy

This little nugget is Brandy, a 9-year-old Chihuahua. Suddenly she became very lethargic and started vomiting. Her parents knew something was wrong and rushed her to the vet. That's where they learned that poor little Brandy's red blood counts were low and her protein levels were high, signaling some issues with her kidneys. Unfortunately, Brandy needed to be hospitalized so the clinic could stabilize her.

Just as in humans, dogs’ kidneys play an important role in their body. According to PetMD, kidneys help balance nutrients in their bodies, filter out waste, control blood pressure, increase red blood cell production, and more. If something is wrong with your pup’s kidneys, it can cause a lot of problems for your pet. 

Kidney problems in dogs can be acute (sudden) or chronic (slowly over time). 

• Acute kidney problems most often step from a poison such as a chemical like antifreeze, prescription or over-the-counter medicines, contaminated water, household cleaners, or food that your pup isn’t supposed to eat (raisins, grapes, etc). Other acute kidney problems come from an obstruction, or blockage, in your pet’s body. 
• Chronic kidney disease is most common in older dogs; early symptoms are easily overlooked or dismissed because they are mild, and may be considered common for your dog; however, dental disease is a leading cause. PetMD says, “Bacteria build up on your dog’s teeth and enter the digestive system when eating and drinking. While your dog’s kidneys are designed to filter waste, bacteria can lessen kidney function over time.”

If you see some of these signs in your pet, changes in kidney health may be to blame: 

• Blood in urine
• Change in volume and frequency of urination
• Decreased appetite
• Drinking more or less water
• Loss of interest in playing or interacting
• Signs of dental disease (pale gums, smelly breath, mouth ulcers)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Vomiting or diarrhea

Brandy's mom is on social security and her dad does carpentry work, and work has been slow for him these days. They didn't have the funds for the emergency hospitalization, so they applied to Fur Kids Foundation for help and we were happy to help. 

Brandy stayed a few nights at the vet clinic, they were able to stabilize her and Brandy is now back home with her family. 

About Fur Kids Foundation
Fur Kids Foundation is 100% run by dedicated volunteers who give their time to help the Foundation raise money with events, take applications, and spread the word about the good work the Foundation does in Campbell County, Wyoming. If you would like to help Fur Kids Foundation continue to help local families with animals afford emergency veterinary care, please consider making a tax-deductible donation via PayPal or signing up to become a volunteer. Read more Success Stories.