Thursday, October 2, 2014

Soft-Coated Wheaton Terrier Diagnosed with PLN



Q:  My Wheaton Terrier was diagnosed with PLN Protein-Losing Nephropathy.  Is there anything I can do from a natural standpoint to try to help him?

A:  So sorry your dog was diagnosed with Protein-Losing Nephropathy.   (PLN) is a disease where the filtering mechanism of the kidneys is defective and the dog loses protein through the urine.  It can be a life long condition that will need special care. Certain breeds have a genetic predisposition to PLN and other protein losing diseases such as Protein-losing Enteropathy (PLE). Most common breeds effected are Soft-Coated Wheaton Terriers, Bernese Mountain Dog, Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers.  Usually the  first sign of PLN is an increase in urination and drinking.  Other symptoms could include: listlessness/depression, decreased appetite, vomiting, weight loss, changes in skin and coat, poor growth in young dogs, and edema (swelling) 

Treating Protein-Losing Nephropathy consists of managing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease. Since conventional veterinary treatments are limited, using a holistic approach with natural supplements can greatly help.  Kidney Health Protein Support helps pets to break down the protein, better absorb and utilize the protein.  This is key with this condition.  Renelix is a powerful kidney detox that helps to flush out toxins and improve kidney function.  Purrfect Pet CoQ10 is an essential antioxidant that is very important for kidney function. While many pets will eat a prescription kidney diet, we have found that using a natural diet, free of glutenous grains with limited, but highly bioavailable protein is best.  Avoid dry food as it is hard to digest and dogs with kidney disease need a high moisture diet.