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Addisons Disease in DogsAddisons disease in dogs (aka canine hypoadrenocorticism or adrenal insufficiency) is not common but, when it occurs, is a very serious condition that requires
immediate medical attention.
Addison's disease in dogs is a condition in which there is insufficient corticosteroid secretion from the adrenal glands.
This disease is the opposite of Cushing's disease. In Cushing's disease, the adrenal glands produce excessive corticosteroids.
While Addison's disease is not as common as Cushing's disease, it still occurs quite frequently in the dog population, especially among young to middle-aged female dogs. However, any dog - old or young, male or female - can develop the disease.
Symptoms of Addisons Disease in DogsUnfortunately, the symptoms of Addison's disease are not distinct and as such many dogs may be suffering from the disease for a while before a positive diagnosis can be made. Some of the more common symptoms are:
Forms of Addisons Disease in DogsCanine Addison's disease comes in three main forms. They are: Primary Addison's This is by far the most common form of canine Addisons disease. It is characterized by an abnormal response of the immune system which causes the body to attack its own tissue. As a result, the adrenal glands are damaged and fail to produce sufficient corticosteroid hormones. A tumor of the adrenal gland can also cause primary Addison's disease. Secondary Addison's Secondary Addison's disease is the result of a lack of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) which is secreted by the pituitary gland and which is a hormone that stimulates the adrenal gland to work. Failure of the pituitary gland is usually a result of a tumor, inflammation, or injury. Atypical Addison's Atypical Addison's is similar to Primary Addison's in that the adrenal glands are not working properly. However, in cases of Atypical Addison's, the adrenal glands fail to secrete the glucocorticoid hormones only. Therefore, in cases of Atypical Addison's, the electrolyte balances are usually normal. TopTreatment for Addisons Disease in DogsConventional treatment for Addisons disease in dogs involves the use of one or more drugs to replace one or both of the hormones (mineralocorticoids and glucocorticoids) in the dog's body. The drug most commonly prescribed is Florinef (fludrocortisone). Another option is an injectable medication called Percorten-V that is given under the skin once a month. TopNatural Remedies for Dog Addisons DiseaseWhile natural remedies cannot regenerate the adrenal glands, proper use of natural supplements and herbs can dramatically slow down the progression of Addisons disease in dogs. The key is to provide suitable nutrients to maintain a healthy body and a strong immune system. Herbs Nutritious herbs (especially those rich in beneficial minerals and vitamins for the proper functioning of the adrenals) such as dandelion, parsley, spirulina (blue-green algae) and nettle can be fed to a dog with symptoms of Addison's disease. Immune-boosting herbs such as garlic, echinacea, and astragalus are also essential to strengthen the dog's immunity. Natural Supplements Dogs with Addison's disease can also benefit from essential fatty acids as well as antioxidants such as vitamins C, E and A.
Related Topic Canine Cushing's Disease References R. Kidd, Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care (Storey Publishing, 2000). Pitcairn abd Pitcairn, Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats (Rodale, 2005). M.L. Wulff-Tilford and G.L. Tilford, Herbs for Pets (Bowtie Press, 1999). The Merck Veterinary Manual TOP OF Addisons Disease in Dogs |
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