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Dog HypothyroidismDog hypothyroidism is a hormonal disease in dogs, specifically, an underproduction of thyroxine, a thyroid hormone.
Hypothyroidism is more common in dogs than in cats, whereas the reverse (hyperthyroidism - overproduction of thyroid hormone) is more prevalent in cats.
Dog hypothyroidism affects both male and female dogs of any age, though its incidence increases in older dogs. It is rare in dogs less than 2 years old. Hypothyroidism is
increasingly being recognized as a cause of new aggressiveness in older dogs.
The thyroid hormone, thyroxine, is extremely important for our dog's entire body. It acts as a catalyst in the body and plays significant roles in a variety of effects and
reactions, such as oxygen consumption; growth and development; food metabolism; vitamin requirements; reproduction; and resistance to infection.
Since hypothyroidism is an underproduction of this important hormone, it is easy to imagine the adverse effects that will have on our dog if she suffers from this hormonal
disease.
Common Causes of Dog HypothyroidismImmune Problem Research shows that in most dogs, hypothyroidism is caused by problems in the dogs' own immune systems. Very often, several different areas in the body will be affected as a result, e.g. the skin, the thyroid, and the digestive system. Medication The use of certain medication can reduce the production of thyroid hormone. For example, the use of corticosteroids for treatment of skin allergy or other inflammations can actually cause hypothyroidism. Lack of Exercise A lack of exercise will decrease the production of thyroid hormone. Toxins As our dogs are being exposed to toxins more and more these days, they are more susceptible to autoimmune diseases such as hypothyroidism. Toxins such as pesticides, food preservatives, household cleaning chemicals are the main culprits. Many holistic veterinarians now regard excess vaccines as a source of toxin intake as well. TopCommon Symptoms of Dog HypothyroidismThe symptoms shown by hypothyroid dogs are varied and include:
Conventional Treatment for Dog HypothyroidismThe conventional treatment is putting the dog on a daily dose of an artificial thyroid hormone (levothyroxine) for the rest of her life. The down side of this treatment is, the dog's thyroid gland will shrink and produce even less hormone (why work so hard when a constant supply of hormone is easy to be had?!). Eventually the dog's thyroid gland will become totally dysfunctional. TopNatural Remedies for Dog Hypothyroidism
Homeopathic Treatment
Many holistic veterinarians have reported good results in treating dog hypothyroidism using homeopathic treatment, in conjunction with herbs, a good nutritious diet, proper supplements, and regular exercise. If your dog has been diagnosed with hypothyroidism, before taking the drastic route of putting her on a drug therapy for the rest of her life, consult a holistic vet for possible alternative treatments.
Herbal Remedies
Herbs are mild and safe alternatives to drugs in providing supplementary treatment for dog hypothyroidism. While conventional medicine can lead to a total shut-down of the
dog's thyroid, herbs on the other hand help to coax the thyroid to go back to work. A much better way I would say, don't you think?
Dog with hypothyroidism can benefit from kelp because of its rich iodine content and
high levels of other nutrient minerals and vitamins. It is an herb of choice for regulating and balancing glandular systems such as the thyroids.
Licorice root not only stimulates an unproductive thyroid gland, but also strengthens and
balances the whole body.
Astragalus or Siberian Ginseng can help to improve the energy levels and can also prevent thyroid atrophy.
If other organs or parts of your dog are also affected, consider other herbs that are good for such organs. For example:
Prevention of Dog HypothyroidismUnlike diabetes, which can be prevented in most cases with proper nutrition, diet and exercise, there are no clearcut preventive measures to reduce the risk of developing hypothyroidism in dogs. However, proper diet and nutrition and the use of natural supplements will boost the immune system and keep the body in the best health possible.References D. Hamilton, Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs (North Atlantic Books, 1999). R. Kidd, Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care (Storey Publishing, 2000). Pitcairn and Pitcairn, Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats (Rodale, 2005). TOP of Dog Hypothyroidism |
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