This was an exhausting day (yesterday) Our appointment was at 10:00. It's an hour and a half drive. We had blood tests done and some other tests and waited for the results (usually about 35-40 minutes). We got out at 2:40 and were so hungry our brains were not processing most of what was being said to us.
There was a lot going on and the first thing is the BUN and creatitine levels were slightly higher but not much. Last time the creatinine was 4.2. This time is was 4.6. We would have all loved for it to have been reduced but this is staying close.
I had to stop writing last night because our server was having problems and it just would not cooperate. So I've picked up a day later.
He was diagnosed with renal tube acidosis which is a disease that occurs when the kidneys
don't remove acid properly into the urine, leaving the too much acid in
the blood (called acidosis). If identifed (as our vet at MSU did) it can usually be easily corrected by giving him tablets of bicarbonate of sodium (baking soda tablets). He can't use tums or similar products because they contain calcium which he doesn't need more of.
He is also losing a lot of protein. The cells that researchers zero in on in declining kidney function are the podocytes (the cells in the kidney's filtering apparatus that underlies it's blood-cleansing abilities). This is the exciting news for us sine there is considerable evidence that medications called ACE inhibiotrs can slow that loss. In fact, ACE inhibitors might acutally restore or aid in renal repair. The one our vet chose was benazepril (Lotensin).
A bi product of protein is phosphorus and it is harmful to dogs with kidney disease. Phosphorus binders can block the absorption of phosphorus from the dog's foods while it is still within the digestive system so Kirby is taking these and his last blood test showed that his phosphorus level was a little lower so the binders are helping and the vet increased them from twice a day to three times a day. It's actually for cats. LOL But can be used for dogs, too.
So we have added an ace inhibitor, benazepril; bicarbonate of soda or the acidity along with the prilosec he was taking for the acid production and he's taking three phosphorus binders a day. Kidney disease is not curable or reversible but some of the symptoms like the acidosis can often be reversed and can increase the quality of life and logevity. And, none of these new medications are expensive. Praise the Lord.
We go back next Tuesday to MSU to do more tests to see how the medications are working to reduce the problems they are prescribed for. The number one factor that decreases the detrimental affects of kidney failure is adhering to a kidney diet which is low in protein and therefore lowers the phosphorus in the dog's blood. He has been on the Kidney Diet since he went to MSU and also receiving subcutaneous IV hydration therapy daily.
It's a lot. It's not for the faint of heart because since Kirby is weak and blind, he cannot always know when he is outside and inside thereby having lots more accidents. Our washing machine is constantly going washing sheets and towels. We have spent many hours doing iv therapy and dispensing his medications. But it doesn't take but one look at Kirby trying so hard to go up and down the steps without being able to see. Navigating the outside and kissing our hands when we rub his back...he's trying so hard to get back on his feet.
He has vomited both times he went back to MSU for blood work and tests. We can't go back with him due to policies at the MSU vet school. It's obvious that it is stressful to him after having spend a week and a half. Next week's tests won't be so extensive and they bring him out to us just as soon as they are finished.
He barked at other dogs while in the waiting room Tuesday. The Alpha seems to be returning. I guess it's frustrating for him to not be able to "size a dog up" visually. We love our vet and vet student and they love Kirby and are so concerned that he gets sick when he comes. They gave him a shot and treats to try and pair something pleasant with them again. I told them it wasn't them, it was the fear of being left again.
This is our need for prayer this week. We are adding several new things to his body that are supposed to help overcome some of the toxins that he can't filter. Even things designed to help can be a stress to his system. Pray that they all work together in harmony to help him get better. The research for all we are doing is good. It often increases the life of a dog by a couple of YEARS not just months. Even as far along as Kirby's kidney disease has progressed.
We are hopeful but more importantly we are trusting God who is leading us to the treatments we are acquiring and utilizing. Pray that the vets who care for Kirby will has wisdom and God's guidance to make decisions for him. Pray that he continues to gain strength. Pray that Russ and I will continue to feel the peace with our decisions for Kirby and our other two dogs, Kasidy and Kada-Joy.
We praise God for providing the remaining money needed to pay for Kirby's medical bills. We give God the glory for all he has done for our family.
