48 replies to this topic

[KrisK]

Zachary, my little ironman, has been diagnosed with renal failure. In itself, it could be treated, but his heart condition has worsened as well so there isn't much to be done except keep him comfortable.
I lost my Jazz two years ago (April 2) - it was Good Friday..now Zachary's failing..and it's almost Good Friday

I am looking for ways to make him as comfortable as possible for the next little while. If you have any suggestions please share them.

He is still eating and drinking but in the middle of the night, he vomited his food so I made the trip to the vet this morning. He thinks it might be a few days...but Zachary has always surprised us .. so it may be longer.

Mojo for him would be nice... I don't want him to suffer.

[MaryP]

Oh Kris, I'm so sorry to hear this. I've been routing for your little Iron Man and I will continue to do so. This is the toughest part about having these wonderful creatures in our lives. Stay strong, Zachary. And may you find peace during this tough time, Kris.

[Sue R]

So, so sorry to hear this.

[juliepoudrier]

SubQ fluids and anti-nausea meds? (If you're up for it--both could help him feel better.) I'm sorry he's having a hard time, but he's rallied before and may yet surprise you. Keeping you both in my prayers.

J.

[G. Festerling]

Prayers from me and mine. He is the wonder dog. So who knows.

[mbc1963]

So sorry! My sister lost her little dog last summer to kidney failure due to Lyme disease - she had to make the tough call to not keep putting her through the hopsitalization/home loop. ::Sigh::

Mary

[PSmitty]

Many good thoughts and prayers for you both, Kris.

[Lewie'sMom]

So sorry. Hugs to you.

[Journey]

So sorry. Good mojo for you both.

[rushdoggie]

Sending warm wishes that he will rally...hang in there.

[gcv-border]

Hard news to hear. Best of wishes to both of you. Sending mojo for Zach's comfort.

Jovi

[bc4ever]

Praying for a miracle.

[aljones]

Keeping good thoughts for you and Zachary at this difficult time.

[airbear]

Mojo for Zachary and peace to you, Kris. Thinking every possible good thought for the little guy.

[bc friend]

Really sorry to hear this. Zachary has been such a fighter with his various health issues. Hopefully he will rally once more but if not, lots of good thoughts being sent for an easy passing.

[Gloria Atwater]

Oh, Kris, I am so very sorry. Blessings and strength to you both.

~ Gloria
P.S.
I second the idea of asking your vet about nausea meds and sub-cue fluids. It may help make him more comfortable.

[WildFlower]

My thoughts and prayers are with you and Zachary.

[ShoresDog]

So sorry to hear that Zachary's fading, Kris. He has been such a stalwart little guy. Give him extra skritches and cuddles from all of us.

[Jo&Tex]

I'm praying for a peaceful passing for Zach for both your sakes. You've walked a long road with this boy.

I suspect that you cant do any extra fluids because it would put too much pressure on his heart. That is the situation I have with Tex. Tex has lousy kidney function which means he needs extra fluids but on the other hand, extra fluids or exertion make him cough because his heart is congested and already working hard.

Our old Annie passed from kidney failure. Mercifully it was quick. Annie just faded away over a span of about 30 hours. In hindsight. I would have euthanized her about 12 hours earlier than I did, just to ease her journey.

As Zach fades, expect him to have tremors and possibly seizures. It is part of the process with kidney failure. He might also have laboured breathing and propping him on his sternum should help. In the old days, before we had dialysis and modern medicine, kidney failure was considered a preferred way to go as it was a gentle, easy death.

The coming days wont be easy and I wish I was closer. Hugs and great mojo to you, your husband and the little Ironman.

[Sasha's Mom]

Hugs and puppy kisses to Zachary, and to you.

Danielle