Jerusalem, 21 March (IANS). Israeli scientists have successfully tested the possible treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in dogs. The study has been published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine and examined the effects of synthetic form of vitamin D in it.
Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem tested this drug on two major complications associated with kidney disease – Renal Secondary Hyperprantyroidism (RHPT) and proteinuria (excessive protein in urine).
CKD is a progressive condition, which gradually leads to the kidney failure. The disease mainly affects aged dogs, but can also be seen in young dogs these days. RHPT develops when the kidney is unable to control the level of calcium and phosphorus in the body, increasing the level of parathyroid hormone. It can weaken bones and damage other organs.
Researchers conducted this test on 13 dogs, which were given percialsitol or placebo in two periods of 12–12 weeks.
Researchers found that proteinuria deteriorated in the dogs given placebo, but remained stable in the dogs provided, which shows that the drug helps in kidney functioning. Some treated dogs saw a slight increase in calcium levels, although dose adjustment helped control the condition.
CKDs in dogs, also known as chronic renal failure, have a progressive position, where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to work properly, which show various symptoms such as thirst and urination, vomiting and losing weight.
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, excessive urination, loss of appetite, weight loss, vomiting and reduction in energy. In the early stages of CKD, there are no symptoms, as the kidneys can still control it. The most common cause of CKD in dogs is aging and kidney infection.
-IANS
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