CRF (Chronic Renal Failure) and the Importance of Blood Work Peanut Perez (Dachshund) passed away in December from Chronic Renal Failure.  Peanut was eleven years old and suffered with CRF for several months.  Peanut was a precious little soul and gave her family much love and joy.  She is survived by her human mother, Gracie Perez, Chino (Chihuahua) and Toby (Schnauzer).  Our hearts are with the Perez family. Gracie has had pets for many years but this was her first encounter with CRF and she wants others to be aware of the symptoms.  Also, diagnosis is based on blood work and urinalysis.  So please do not skip the blood work on annual checkups. CRF is the most common kidney disorder in dogs and cats.  It is associated with irreversible structural damage within the kidney.  The damage can be hidden for months but is usually progressive.  It is more common in older animals but can happen at any age.  The underlying cause is often undetermined and not present at the time of diagnosis.  Causes include long-term damage from acute renal failure (sudden decreases in blood flow from trauma, shock, deep anesthesia, hyperthermia or hypothermia).  Toxins/drugs are another cause, as well as infections, cancer, urinary tract obstructions, congenital diseases, and inherited diseases. A pet with CRF may drink and urinate often, have weight loss, appetite loss, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness.  They are often dehydrated, may have pale mucous membranes, high blood pressure, small irregular kidneys and may have oral ulcers. The long-term prognosis for CRF is poor since it is an irreversible disease, but the progression can be slowed with proper treatment.  Pets with CRF can live months to years with proper treatment.