Principle Investigator

Drs. Autumn N. Harris and Shelly L. Vaden

Description

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common condition in dogs and often progresses over time despite standard medical management. A frequent complication of CKD is metabolic acidosis, a condition in which excess acid accumulates in the body. This imbalance has been associated with worsening kidney function, decreased quality of life, and shorter survival times.

In human medicine, treatment of metabolic acidosis using oral alkaline therapy (sodium bicarbonate) has been shown to slow disease progression and improve outcomes. However, the effectiveness of this therapy in dogs with CKD remains unknown.

This study is a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial designed to evaluate whether sodium bicarbonate is safe, well tolerated, and effective in improving acid-base balance and long-term clinical outcomes in dogs with CKD.

The results of this study may help establish a simple, widely available treatment to improve the management of dogs with kidney disease.

Testing Requirements

This is a clinical treatment trial in which dogs will be randomly assigned to receive either sodium bicarbonate or placebo.

Participation includes:
1. Screening Visit (Enrollment)
~ Physical examination
~ Blood pressure measurement
~ Bloodwork (CBC, chemistry, blood gas)
~ Urinalysis and urine protein testing

2. Study Treatment
~ Oral capsules administered twice daily
~ Contains either sodium bicarbonate or placebo
~ Dose may be adjusted based on response

3. Follow-Up Visits
~ Rechecks every 2–4 weeks for the first 2–3 visits
~ Then every 4 months for up to 1 year
~ Each visit includes:
~ Physical exam
~ Bloodwork and acid-base testing
~ Urine testing
~ Blood pressure monitoring

Enrollment Start

07/01/2026

Enrollment Finish

07/01/2028

Eligibility

1. Dogs diagnosed with stable chronic kidney disease (IRIS Stage II–III)
2. Evidence of metabolic acidosis (low bicarbonate levels)
3. Eating a prescription renal diet
4. Managed as an outpatient (not requiring hospitalization

Flyer

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Contact

For more information, please contact the Harris Lab at [email protected]