My senior dog with heart & kidney failure died after fluids. Why?

Question

I need answers. My 17-year-old Chihuahua was diagnosed with congestive heart failure about a year ago and just last week diagnosed with renal failure. I took what seemed like a perfectly healthy dog (for her age) to the vet on Friday for fluid therapy, and she was gone by Sunday. What happened? I’m heartbroken and can’t find anything about this.

Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA · Accepted Answer

I'm very sorry to hear about the loss of your dog. Unfortunately, chronic renal failure is a common problem in elderly dogs, and is often in the late stages already by time it's diagnosed. The situation was likely complicated by the fact that your girl also had CHF, because the treatment for renal failure (lots of fluids) is essentially the opposite of what dogs with heart disease need to control their symptoms. So we are often stuck between a rock and a hard place, when it comes to trying to treat dogs who have both of these problems. It sounds like your girl had a wonderful life, to have made it to 17 years old. It doesn't sound like there's anything at all you could have done differently - these are both just bad diseases, that are unfortunately common in older pets. Again, I'm very sorry for your loss.

My senior dog with heart & kidney failure died after fluids. Why?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

My degu has trouble breathing, coughing, and nose discharge. Help?

My ferret has bloody urine and bladder stones. Is it an emergency?

My bird has PFBD. Is chest trembling a normal sign or a symptom?

Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?

Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?

Share