Prevention of acute renal failure

Acute renal failure (ARF) induced by therapeutic agents that are nephrotoxic (e.g., gentamicin, cisplatin, amphotericin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) or hypotension associated with anesthesia and surgery unfortunately occur with some regularity in small animal practice. Several clinical conditions have been identified that can increase the risk of hospital-acquired ARF in dogs. Recognition of these risk factors allows the clinician to assess the risk/benefit ratio for various drugs and/or procedures. Additionally, initiating protective measures and increasing the monitoring of renal function in those patients that require potentially harmful treatment may decrease the incidence of hospital-acquired ARF.