Activities For Dogs With Kidney Disease
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Prepare for unexpected vet bills
Introduction
When your dog is diagnosed with kidney disease, it can not only be life changing for them but for you as well. All of a sudden, your pup has new special needs that may be overwhelming to both of you. Making sure you and your dog still have fun together on a daily basis is a necessity. These activities are perfect for your pooch who is struggling with kidney disease and will keep them happy despite not feeling their best.
Doggy Door
Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Moderate
Easy
2 hrs
Items needed
Treats
Doggy Door
Activity description
When your pup has kidney disease, you are probably very familiar with how frequently they need to go to the bathroom. That is just part of life with kidney disease. Your dog was likely perfectly trained to go to the bathroom outside before kidney disease came into play so now, just trying to do what they were taught and holding it until they get outside may be a challenge. Make life a little easier for your dog by installing a doggy door and then training them how to use it. This will give them the ability to go in and out as needed, without having to get the attention of someone capable of opening a door. A doggy door is inexpensive if you can install it yourself!
Step
1
Get the hardware
Check out a few different doggy doors before purchasing one. If you have a larger pup, then you clearly need a larger door! Consider the higher end insulated doggy doors if you live in a cooler climate where you don't want the heat escaping your home. Buy the doggy door that is best for you then install it on a door that leads to a fenced in yard or outdoor area.
Step
2
Training
Show your pup how to use the doggy door by slowly introducing them to the idea that they can walk through a door! Push the door out and hold it open, placing a treat on the other side for your dog to reach. When your dog walks through the door, give them praise. Keep helping your dog go in and out until they are comfortable pushing the door open by themselves.
Step
3
Daily use
Make sure your dog has access to their doggy door all day, every day, whether you are home or not. Since kidney disease makes it hard for your pup to control their bladder, they will be able to easily run out when needed. Your dog will appreciate their doggy door and you will enjoy not having to clean up any accidents in the house!
Water Fun
Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Cheap
Easy
20 min
Items needed
Water Bottle Bowl
Water Fountains
Water Bowl
Activity description
Dogs who suffer from kidney disease need to stay adequately hydrated. Proper hydration will help support your dog's kidneys and hopefully keep them working properly. While you may think your dog's one water bowl is sufficient, it may not be intriguing enough to make your dog drink the amount of water they need to. Over the top water bowls are fun or you and your pup and they are also medically beneficial. You can find these various water bowls in a range of prices and setting them up for your dog can be done in a just matter of minutes!
Step
1
Fancier bowl
Upgrade your dog's existing water bowl by purchasing a bigger, more eye-catching one. Do you think your dog likes blue? Get a blue water bowl! Do they like having water in every room? Then get a new bowl for every room in your house. Show your dog their new bowl (or bowls!) to get them excited to drink fresh, clean water!
Step
2
Water bowl fountains
If you really need an upgrade for your dog's water, check out water bowl fountains. These bowls will keep a fresh stream of water running for your dog all day. The appeal of moving water will entice your dog and get them to drink more - exactly what you want when your pup has kidney disease.
Step
3
Water bottle bowl
When your pup has kidney disease, you may want to take them with you on outings or adventures to make sure they are having fun in day to day life. When you're out and about, bring a dog bowl that can connect to a water bottle. This way, you can put the bowl on the water bottle and, poof! Your dog has fresh water wherever you are!
Road Trip
Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Cheap
Easy
1 hr
Items needed
Fresh Water
Blankets
Leash
waste bags
Activity description
When your dog has kidney disease, they likely are less playful than they use to be. Dogs with kidney disease sleep more and run around less but that doesn't mean they should be stuck in the house all day. Taking a road trip with your dog is the perfect way to give them a little entertainment without having to move around and overexert themselves. A drive in the car will let your dog see new things, smell some good smells and relax in the comforting moving car. You just need to pay for gas and you and your dog will be ready to go in any weather!
Step
1
Plan your trip
Plan where you are going based on how long you and your pup want to spend in the car. If you are just in need of a quick outing, map a route that will take you somewhere scenic nearby (maybe a forest, ocean or somewhere with a lot of lights for your pup to look at). If you are ready for a long adventure, plan a long, all day drive with a destination at the end that your dog may enjoy. The great thing about road trips is that they are totally flexible!
Step
2
Comfort is key
Make sure that your dog with kidney disease is extra comfortable in the car. Fill the backseat with blankets and make a nice bed for them to lay on. Be sure to bring lots of fresh water to give to your dog throughout the trip as water is very important to pups with kidney disease. Stop a few times while out for your drive to allow your dog to get out of the car, stretch their legs, and go to the bathroom.
Step
3
Sights, sounds and smells
Roll down your dog's window a little to let them get some fresh air and stick their nose out if they'd like to catch some smells. Put on some relaxing music in the car to soothe your dog and be sure to let your pup know if anything is exciting outside the window as you drive! Make car rides part of your weekly routine to keep your dog with kidney disease happy and active.
More Fun Ideas...
Fresh Food
While giving your dog with kidney disease treats constantly is discouraged, it is advised that you feed your dog fresh food. Try a variety of kidney-friendly foods to see which your dog likes best. Consult your vet - they can advise you on the best foods for your pup!
Cuddle Session
When your dog is struggling with kidney disease, they may need some extra attention. Be sure to spend time with your pup, cuddled on the couch, giving them some extra love.
Conclusion
Just because your dog has been diagnosed with kidney disease doesn't mean they have to stop having fun. While their activity level may be limited, they can still do plenty of fun things with you to keep busy and stay happy. Before you set off on a new adventure, be sure to consider your dog's ever-changing needs and plan ahead for anything they might want along the way. Water, comfort and excitement will make for a content pup!