Chronic kidney failure and yogurt

[Dakota Hills]

My 4 yo (adopted) female Rottweiler has just been diagnosed with chronic renal failure and is starting a new diet. We are in the process of switching her to a special diet prescribed by her vet. My question is this: We give our dogs a tablespoon of vanilla-flavored yogurt mixed in with their meals. Is it okay to continue doing this? Is there anything in the yogurt that would be stressful on their kidneys?

Thanks for any info.

[Dr Lee]

The concern with yogurt and any dairy product is that they can be high in phosphorus which has been shown detrimental in kidney disease. This is a similar situation for people. Since we are talking about a 'human food' here is a link to the Mayo Clinic with regards to high phosphorus in foods (diary is first mentioned).

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/foo...rition/HQ01212

(Note on the site: while yogurt was one of the highest in phosphorus, they have some alternative options such as sherbet which has zero phosphorus)

With that said, everything in moderation. What is the phosphorus level of your pet? If with a small amount of yogurt, it stays below 6; then I would not necessarily change your plan with a small amount of yogurt. If his phosphorus is on the high side, not only would I reduce dairy products out of the diet but would think about epikitin which is a natural phosphorus binder. Another natural medication for kidney disease is Azodyl which uses a lactobacillus strain (unfortunately not the ones available in yogurt) which destroys urea products and provided 'enteric dialysis' and reduces blood BUN levels. These are some great options in addition to the kidney diets - and both natural!

Hope that helps

[mummummum]

I wonder if you would consider a raw diet. Unlike processed kibble or cooked meats, a raw meat diet has a higher bio-availability (your dog's body can digest and use the food more easily and readily) and results in less waste straining the kidneys.

You might also want to consider seeing an accupressure /puncture specialist to boost kindney function.