Does Your Dog Have Addison's Disease?

There is no companion in the world like a happy

, healthy dog. No wonder they are nicknamed "man's best friend"! That is precisely why it can be so alarming when our dogs begin to show signs that something is amiss in their bodies. But it is even more nerve-wracking when you don't know what could be wrong.

Depending upon the breed, the lethargy and vomiting that your canine is exhibiting could be canine Addison's Disease. The only person that can make a decisive diagnosis is your pet's veterinarian, but allow me to alert you to some signs you should be looking for, the breeds affected, and the treatment you should expect.

Addison's disease results in an imbalance in a human or animal's metabolic and electrolyte levels because the adrenal glands do not function as they do in unaffected individuals, possibly because of a problem in the pituitary gland, a small part of the brain responsible for sending the right messages to the endocrine system to produce certain hormones.

Addison's Disease is hereditary, but it may be manifested through a currently unknown environmental trigger. To avoid adopting a dog that may have the gene for the disease--as well as other medical problems that are passed through the generations--you should discuss your concerns with the breeder from whom you are adopting.

A reputable breeder will always select sires and dams that are free of disease and come from pedigrees of disease-free dogs. However, if your dog is a rescue, this is probably not a possibility.

So, keep in mind that several medium-sized and large dogs are considered in the high risk group, including standard poodles, German shepherds, bearded collies, Great Danes, and Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers, among others.

Take note of your pup's behavior. Vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy are almost always a sign that something is seriously wrong, but other symptoms include pain in the hind parts, low heart rate, loss of appetite, and low heart rate. You may also notice that your dog develops tremors or collapses because of muscle weakness.

If you notice any combination of these symptoms, make an appointment with the vet right away. Statistically speaking, your dog is more likely to present these signs if it is female in middle age (around four years old). However, Addison's can present at any age and in both genders.

If your dog's vet diagnoses Addison's Disease, don't worry. Treatment is readily available and often involves a monthly injection of Percorten or Adequan. There will be some blood work required in the initial stages so the vet can determine what kind of dose your dog will need over time, but that requirement will lessen eventually. It's well worth it to get your best friend back in top condition.

by: Art Gib

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