At the end of 2024, our dogs' teeth were cleaned by their vet. Because our small dogs were 16,…read morethey had blood work done before going under anaesthesia.
The blood work showed our dogs were in good health. However, their kidneys were right under the line for needing a special diet or meds. We were told to keep an eye out for any changes.
In January 2025, we moved from Scottadale to Cameron Park. In March, we noticed our eldest dog, Otis, had a corneal ulcer (1). Later, I learned ulcers can be a sign of kidney failure.
We went to nearby Airport Pet Clinic (APC) for treatment. We purchased the medication for healing. Since there would be follow-up care, we bought their annual Pet Plan to cover those future visits.
At his follow-ups:
2) I said Otis would sometimes stare off into space or stumble about as if drunk. I was told this was dementia. Later, I learned this type of confusion can be a sign of kidney failure.
3) I mentioned twitching and weakness in his back legs when standing. I was told this was arthritis. Later, I learned muscle changes in the legs can be a sign of kidney failure.
4) I was asked about his potty routine. I was not asked the color of his stools. Later, I learned his black, tarry stools can be a sign of kidney failure.
5) I was asked about his drinking.
I said he drank a TON as I was often refilling his bowl. Later, I learned drinking a lot of water can be a sign of kidney failure.
6) I was asked about his eating. Otis liked to eat his meals at 6 AM and 6 PM. But his drooling meant I had to wipe his face after. Later, I learned drooling can be a sign of kidney failure.
7) I was asked about his sleeping. Otis slept all night but slept more and more all day waking up only at meal times. Later, I learned increased sleep can be a sign of kidney failure.
In March 2026, our annual Pet Plan at Airport Clinic was ending. I scheduled a final check-up for the dogs. Despite all the signs, no mention was made that Otis could be in end stage renal disease (ESRD).
Instead, the vet focused on Otis's younger brother, Fen. He had 4 prescriptions for Vetmedin left and then he'd need a renewal. Fen has a heart murmur and without this medication, he could die.
The vet wanted a $1,000 worth of blood tests, x-rays, and a cardiologist review to renew the prescription. I offered to pay $250 a month over 4 months so everything was paid off by the time Fen needed the renewal. This plan was refused.
In April 2026, I took my dogs to Goldorado Animal Hospital. I had Fen examined first and we worked out a plan for his renewal when his original prescription ends. Otis's exam was scheduled for 9 AM Tuesday, April 22.
Regrettably, Otis became ill after midnight on Monday, April 21. At his appointment, his kidneys were failing so I had to make the worst decision a pet parent has to make. Otis passed away, his ashes are with us, we are comforting his little brother, and our whole family misses him.
First, I am upset that his signs were missed during his annual care at Airport Pet Clinic. Second, Otis needlessly suffered because he wasn't properly diagnosed. Third, measures weren't taken to delay the end stage or ease symptoms or reduce pain.
Please, APC, take more care spotting signs of kidney failure in geriatric dogs. It hurts me so much to think my sweet boy was suffering unnecessarily the last year of his life. No one deserves that.
