Doggie Dialysis: DoveLewis saves two dogs from potential overdose

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Two dogs were saved from a fatal overdose after doctors used dialysis technology to extract toxins from their bloodstream.

Doctors at DoveLewis Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Hospital jumped into action after two dogs were brought in who had potentially eaten naproxen, a pain reliever that can be deadly to dogs.

Mia and Kodak were taken to the hospital after their family came home to find naproxen on the floor and although they presented normal lab results, it was unknown which dog, or if both, had eaten the pills.

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The family opted to air on the side of caution and the dogs underwent dialysis using technology not often used in veterinary medicine.

The doctors used a Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy machine, and the dogs underwent Total Plasma Exchange for several hours which extracted the toxin directly from their bloodstream.

“Both Mia and Kodak responded exceptionally well to the TPE treatment, showing no subsequent organ damage and maintaining normal kidney function throughout their recovery,” said Dr. Lindsey McGuire, DVM. “Having a dialysis machine is something that is rare for veterinary hospitals to have, but we’re excited to be able to offer families a new way to combat pet toxin emergencies.”

The dogs recovered quickly and DoveLewis said they showed normal appetites and behavior within a few days of the procedure.

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