Seizures from kidney failure?

[pineapple66]

My 16 and a half year old collie was given 2 months to live 3 years ago with liver disease but we battled through that with a special diet and now it seems the main issue is kidney disease. Her BUN and Creatinine numbers have been rising steadily. She is drinking more but has a poor appetite and has lost weight. She had a long lasting UTI a month ago but the final urinalysis was perfect. She has rear end weakness which is gradually getting worse.
About 3 months ago she had some sort of seizure/stroke which resulted in unsteadyness and a head tilt.  Within a few days she was back to normal however. Last night she had another seizure. It wasn't as bad and had no lasting effects but it was still horrible to see her in distress.
She is still interested in life and doesn't seem ready to go though maybe I am kidding myself.
We are waiting for the results of blood tests which may indicate what the options are.
We haven't tried sub q yet (a vet told me it could be painful?) or any medical intervention. I am also wondering about phosphorus binders and something to lower.blood pressure (shoul high blood pressure be diagnosed).
The Catch 22 is that anything beneficial for her current condition could be harmful for the liver. She does get supplements though -  fish oil/vitamin E/CoQ10/probiotics.  
It is not yet proven that the seizures are to do with the kidneys though I think it is likely. Is there anything I can do to reduce the likelihood? That and the rear weakness are my biggest concerns. Am constantly weighing up of whether I should help her go now or whether it is too early.
Thank you.

[Ghilly]

I am amazed that she has lived three years longer than they said she would!  God bless her, that's wonderful!!!  Collies are my breed, they are the only breed I will ever have so I have a special soft spot for them.  

You know your girl better than anyone.  If she is still interested in things and appears to enjoy herself then I say let her be.  I don't know why sub-q would be painful, it's a simple procedure.  So simple, in fact, you could do it at home to save her the stress of having to go to the vet all the time.  The vet can provide you with IV bags and lines and show you how to slip the needle under the skin.  A small bore needle wouldn't hurt at all and, while it would take longer to get the fluids in there than a large bore needle you could just sit with her on the couch and pet her for an hour while you administer the fluids.

Do a Google search for canine renal diets and home-cook for her.  You might have to tweak some of the recipes to pacify the liver issues but it can be done.

The bottom line is you know your dog.  It's about quality of life, not quantity.  When she stops enjoying being with you, you will know it.  You will see it in her eyes and there will be no mistaking it.  In the meantime, love her and enjoy her.  Cessation of eating will be your first sign.  She won't want to do the things she always does.  But don't live just waiting for that moment.  Enjoy your girl while she's here and let her enjoy you.  

Ghilly

[tonyb286]

Please join our user group which is for owners of dogs with chronic kidney failure. I call in there daily and I and others are always happy to offer guidance, information and support. Feel free to ask any questions.

http://www.medhelp.org/forums/show/1809

Tony

[Margot49]

If you go to Groups on the side of the page, click on that and you will see Chronic Kudney Failure in dogs.  Click on that.  You will find a lot of good information there.