Renal Dysplasia
Canine Renal Dysplasia: Screening & Support in Surprise, AZ
Renal dysplasia is a congenital condition where a pet’s kidneys fail to develop normally before birth. Because this affects a pet’s ability to filter waste, it often leads to juvenile kidney failure. At Animal Medical Center of Surprise, we provide the specialized diagnostics and supportive care needed to manage this condition and protect future bloodlines.
Symptoms & At-Risk Breeds
Symptoms typically appear before a dog is one year old. Early detection is key, especially for breeds with a genetic predisposition, such as Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, and Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers.
Watch for these early warning signs:
- Polydipsia/Polyuria: Excessive thirst and frequent urination (often mistaken for house-training issues).
- Failure to Thrive: Stunted growth or being smaller than littermates.
- Low Energy: Lethargy and a lack of typical puppy playfulness.
- Uremic Signs: Poor appetite, weight loss, or vomiting as toxins build up.
Advanced Diagnosis & Management
Traditional blood work often misses early-stage kidney issues. Our clinic utilizes advanced tools to catch dysfunction sooner:
- SDMA Testing: A sensitive blood marker that detects kidney loss far earlier than standard creatinine tests.¹
- Diagnostic Imaging: Ultrasounds to visualize if the kidneys are abnormally small or misshapen.
- Supportive Care: While there is no cure, we can slow progression through prescription renal diets, hydration therapy (SQ fluids), and medications to manage blood pressure.²
Information for Responsible Breeders
Renal dysplasia is hereditary, and healthy "carriers" can still pass the trait to their puppies.
- Genetic Screening: We recommend DNA testing for at-risk breeds before they enter a breeding program.³
- Health Clearances: Clinical screening (blood work and ultrasound) helps ensure your breeding pairs have healthy kidney conformation.
If you are a breeder or own an at-risk breed, contact Animal Medical Center of Surprise today to schedule a screening.
