Stage 3 kidney failure

[SparklyMaker]

Recently been told my small breed dog (aged almost 15) has this. Being “treated” with renal dog food,

I am not an idiot, I know she won’t have long left anyway but what do I look for and know when it’s time to let go?

what promoted me to go to the vet recently was increased drowsiness, she seemed to be losing her balance, she also was peeing in her sleep and on the carpet which were all new things.

thanks in advance for any help.

As soon as you think they're not enjoying their life. Hugs x

Oh I'm so sorry - both for you and your poor dog.

If it was me, and my dog, and they were still peeing in their sleep and were drowsy/confused/unbalanced, I would PTS sooner rather than later- but that is simply because I couldn't stand seeing my dog waking up in their own urine and I know that both my dogs would be (for lack of a better word) devastated by their incontinence and lethargy. Also because I could not face my dog reaching end-stage (and I am a firm believer of better a week early than a day late).

But, only you know your dog and know if she's still happy in herself and has a good quality of life. And only your vet and you know how close to Stage 4 she is.

I am really sorry though - 15 is an incredible age and you must have some beautiful memories of your time together.

The peeing in her sleep has thankfully stopped now. We washed her bedding around 4 times. Thanks for the replies ❤️

I'm so sorry you're going through this

I really think it depends on each dog and their quality of life. Some cope for a surprising amount of time on a renal diet and medication, others struggle much more. You'll know when it's time - sending you a big hug.

Thank you everyone, I’m in such a rough place..She is still eating and drinking.

It’s awful, I am so torn as I don’t want her to suffer at all- she’s been so lethargic and shaky today I’ve been thinking it’s time. Then all of a sudden she shows signs of liveliness and I feel like an evil bitch for even thinking I should have her put to sleep.

Could there be other issues going on to cause the shakiness?

At 15 she likely has arthritis.

Yes she does have a touch of arthritis but she cannot take the pain relief for that as it will damage her kidneys.

she’s made the decision for me after another wet bed this morning , increased trembling and just looking at me with no expression I’ve decided it’s time. I sort of knew it yesterday but just wanted to get some thoughts. Thanks everyone.

DH has gone shopping for some garlic bread and some proper chocolate for her x❤️

So sorry. Thinking of you. It's a brave decision but it's the last and most loving gift you can give her.

Ah I'm so sorry - it's so hard x

I'm so sorry. My pug was PTS just over 2 weeks ago with possible kidney failure. Sending hugs xx

I’m so sorry. Our girl was PTS yesterday and I know how hard it is to make that decision. We kept having moments of ‘wagging tail’ her seeming more bright and questioning our decision. Ultimately today I know we did the kindest thing and it sounds like you have too. x

I will have to change my username after this post. But here is my beautiful little girl. Living without her sucks. She went so peacefully ❤️

Im so sorry… she was gorgeous. It will feel awful, but you have done the kindest thing…

@SparklyMaker so sorry you had to make that decision. It won't feel like it, but you have done the kindest thing. She was beautiful and clearly adored - at 15 years she must have had an amazing life with you

I'm so sorry. I had to do the same thing. My dog's kidneys failed after long years on drugs to control his heart murmur. It's the worst and hardest thing I've ever had to do but there was no hope for him. You sound like a lovely devoted owner, I'm sure your dear little friend had a great life with you x