Kidney Dogs...there is a natural alternative

As many of my customers know, there is often a natural alternative to both medications and prescription diets - without the harmful side effects. I have recently had many questions about dogs with kidney disease and renal failure.  Conventionally, a veterinarian will say to put the dog on a low-protein diet.  If you look at the label of some such diets, you can see that their ingredients are low-quality.  Among the first few ingredients in Hills k/d are Brewers Rice (a by-product of rice), Pork Fat, and Corn Gluten Meal.  Although the Royal Canin mp and lp are better choices, they still contain both Corn, and Corn Gluten Meal.  I began to ask around, "What is the alternative?" I know these formulas contain 11%-15% protein and no natural food I have found has a protein level that low.  I started researching the topic and emailed a holistic vet about the issue.  What I found is that it is not, in fact, the protein itself that cannot be processed by the kidneys; it is the substance used in processing the protein that is not easily digested.  There have been many scientific tests done which point to the fact that high protein is bad for a dog with diseased kidneys, however, all such tests were done with processed proteins.  More modern research done using high quality, unprocessed proteins show that in fact, a higher protein diet with a low phosphorus content is preferable. 

The holistic vet I contacted had this to say: "I suggest feeding a high-protein, raw meat based diet.  I have seen dramatic reductions in elevated kidney blood tests within two weeks for some patients. Why does conventional medicine do the opposite? Because all of the conventional nutrition research is done with processed foods." 

A raw diet may be easier to feed than you think.  Nature's Variety makes a raw diet that is complete and frozen.  You simply thaw the patties and serve them at meal time.  It is easy and healthy!

Please let me know if you want more information on this topic.  I have several websites I can refer you to, plus I can send you a copy of my correspondence with the vet. 

**I have recently heard of a remedy called Kibow.  The research I have found on the product explains that it is a combination of three good bacteria that work together to absorb the toxins that diseased kidneys do not break down.  Check out: http://www.kibowbiotec.com/ for more info on this product.