Kidney infections in dogs, just like in humans, may be deadly if left untreated for long. Kidney infection in dogs arises when bacteria gains access to the kidney by entering through the urinary tract, urethra, and bladder.

This article discusses in details the

Causes of kidney infection in dogs
Signs of kidney infection in dogs
Treatment of kidney infections in dogs

Causes of Kidney infection in Dogs
There are different causes of kidney infection in dogs, other than bacterial infection. Kidney infection in dogs can be caused by:

Parasites
Kidney stones
Weakened immune system
Imbalances of water in urine
Age
Kidney dysfunction
Also infectious diseases which is introduced into the system of a canine through consuming polluted water or via open wounds, can lead to kidney infection.

Kidney infection in dogs can also be caused by your dog consuming contaminated foods including uncooked fish, infected frogs, or even digging up and eating earthworms. This can cause your dog to become infected with kidney worms. Kidney worms that affect dogs are of two types: Capillaria plica and Dioctophyma renale. Though most dogs and other pets are rarely affected by these worms.

Signs of Kidney Infection in Dogs
At the initial stage of infection, the signs of kidney infection in dogs mostly go unnoticed. However, as the infection progresses, it begins to affect the function of the kidney. When signs of kidney infection in dogs finally become obvious, the infection may have deteriorated to an advanced stage.

Some signs of kidney infection in dogs includes:

Loss of appetite
Fever
Urinating excessively
Difficulty passing out urine
Weight loss
Excessive thirst
Blood in urine
Urine with an unusual color
Urine with foul odor
Bend forward
Lethargy
Vomiting
Pain in the side or abdomen

As the infection progresses, sepsis or renal failure, which are two deadly conditions may occur.

It is advisable to consult a vet immediately you notice the listed signs of kidney infection in your dog. Note that some of the signs may mimic other conditions, the more reason why you should see your vet for accurate diagnosis, so that the right treatment can be administered.

Kidney stones in dogs also cause similar symptoms as kidney infection. Kidney stones may also lead to kidney infection.

Signs of Kidney failure in dogs
The signs of kidney failure in dogs is worse than kidney infection. At the early stage, kidney failure in dogs may include all of the above symptoms and might also include the following:

Ulcers in mouth
Diarrhea or constipation
Bad breath
Blindness
Seizures
Coma

Treatment for Kidney Infection in Dogs
Your vet will prescribe antibiotics for the treatment for kidney infections in dogs.

When the urine test results from your dog confirms that bacteria is causing the symptoms. Surgery may be required if you’re the bacteria causes a form of barrier in the urinary tract.

For cases of kidney stones, your vet will use a shock wave treatment to break them down into tiny bits that can easily be excreted with urine.

If worms are causing the symptoms, your vet may remove them using surgery. If the kidney has been greatly impaired by the infection, it may require the entire removal of the affected kidney.

If the kidney indicates signs of failure, the organ may have to be extracted too. One kidney that is working effectively can still sustain your dog. However, keep your dog under close scrutiny. Consult your doctor for healthy foods you can feed your dog with after a kidney surgery.

Can a dog recover from kidney failure?
No, dogs cannot recover from kidney failure. Most dogs with kidney failure sadly live for just several days. High rate of survival depends on detecting the disease at its early stage and treating it on time. Treatment involves administering fluid therapy via vein and medications.

Source: https://healthdiary365.com/kidney-infection-in-dogs-signs-causes-and-treatments/

Nice piece.. Are you a vet?