Scientific Communication Technician/Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner Royal Canin Canada Hawkesbury , Ontario, Canada
Disclosure(s):
Cynthia Mercier, RVT CCRP: No financial relationships to disclose
This session presents a case involving a 15-year-old female spayed Chihuahua diagnosed with stage 3 chronic kidney disease (CKD) and a history of pancreatitis—two conditions that pose significant nutritional challenges in geriatric canine patients. The patient was referred through the Royal Canin Case Consultation Service with signs of weight loss, decreased appetite, and melena. Diagnostics confirmed renal dysfunction with no active pancreatitis, though dietary management had to address both conditions simultaneously. The nutritional approach included controlled phosphorus and high-quality protein to support renal function, while fat levels were carefully limited to prevent pancreatitis flare-ups. The patient responded well, with improved appetite, stable weight, and reduced gastrointestinal symptoms. This case underscores the vital role of nutrition in managing complex, chronic conditions in older dogs and demonstrates how targeted dietary strategies can improve quality of life.
Learning Objectives:
Recognize the unique nutritional challenges in managing geriatric canine patients with concurrent chronic kidney disease (CKD) and a history of pancreatitis.
Develop appropriate dietary strategies to support renal function while minimizing the risk of pancreatitis flare-ups in canine patients.
Evaluate the role of nursing support in monitoring clinical signs, promoting dietary adherence, and enhancing quality of life in geriatric patients with CKD and pancreatitis.
