Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Already a member? Sign in
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Is my dog with chronic kidney disease a candidate for transplant?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 2 years and 4 months old | 48 lbs

I have an English Bulldog mix with CKD (DOB 5/20/15). He was diagnosed this year, ans is currently on Hills Prescription diet K/D. I have been using Idexx SDMA/CREA test every 6 months. He has always had an elevated CREA since he was a few months old. His last levels done in April 2017 were Crea-1.7 and SDMA was 22. His CREA is normally in the 1.9-2.2 range so it went down a little bit. What steps would need to be taken to see if he would be eligible for a transplant in the future?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jeffrey Milner

Veterinarian

Published on July 23rd, 2017

Kidney transplantation is an extremely rare and complicated procedure that is not often performed in dogs. It is more common in cats, though still relatively rare. The reason for this is because of the difficulty associated with performing the procedure, the potential complications associated with it, the cost, and the drugs needed on a life long basis after its completion. For your convenience I have attached a document explaining quite a bit about canine kidney transplant and what it entails. In terms of places that perform it, there are only a select few universities and a handful of referral hospitals that will even consider it. If this is something you are considering the first thing you will need to do is find which of these facilities is closest to you geographically so you can talk to someone, to find out if this is the best and most realistic option at this juncture. You are very unlikely to find someone on this website who is an authority in this area since it is something that almost certainly nobody on here has ever taken part in. Another thing just of note - I know that for kidney transplants in cats that the deal was that whatever animal is donating their healthy kidney is automatically adopted by the owner of the sick animal. I don't know if this is the deal for dogs too, but I would not be surprised if something like this has to occur. Here is the article I was talking about. Hope it helps. http://www.medinavets.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/newtreatment.pdf

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It looks like you are managing his kidney disease quite well. I would recommend asking your vet for a referral to an internal specialist to discuss kidney transplant requirements. This is beyond what we can discuss here on the forum as this takes an in depth conversation with a specialist. However, it looks as though you have done most of the preliminary work-up and managing of a pet with chronic kidney disease. And to my understanding, if there is damage to the kidney that is irreversible then this is worth considering requesting for a transplant. I am also assuming that Gunner has already had an abdominal ultrasound to classify what exact kidney disorder her has. If not, then this would be the first step towards considering a kidney transplant. I wish you all the best with Gunner and managing his disease going forward.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?
Is Purina Layer Pellets the right choice for your flock? Get expert advice from a Petco veterinarian on Purina and other top chicken feed brands for your chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?
Do your mice quickly eat together from one bowl? A Licensed Vet Tech explains normal mouse eating behavior and when to watch for aggression. Get expert insights.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
New Pet
Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?
New pet biting? A Licensed Vet Tech shares expert advice on how to gently acclimate your new companion to their home, reduce stress, and build trust. Get guidance for a happy pet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?
Your degu had an accident, lost teeth, and can't eat hard food. A Petco Vet Tech offers crucial advice on immediate vet care and how to feed your injured degu.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored