For those of you who don't know, our little Sadie, our first born, has been very sick... Thanks to Audrie at Dry Fork she is with us today and progressing more and more.
I took her a week from yesterday because she has been getting weaker and weaker....and could NOT figure out what her deal was...
Audrie explained to be when I got there that she was VERY dehydrated, her temp was very low, her heart beat had started slowing down...she was very close to not being with us anymore.
This is her deal!
She has Addisons.
WHAT IS ADDISON'S DISEASE(CANINE HYPOADRENOCORTICISM)?
Addison's disease is a condition in which a dog's adrenal gland does not produce a sufficient amount of either cortisol or aldosterone.
This can cause many serious health complications, and has a high probability of being mis-diagnosed as another disease. This is because the symptoms of Addison's disease in dogs are relatively general, including fatigue, diarrhea, sweating, and muscle pain. The most difficult aspect of dealing with Addison's disease in your dog is receiving a positive diagnosis for the disease. After diagnosis, the treatment options for Addison's disease are very effective, though will require your dog to take medication for the rest of their life.
WHAT CAUSES ADDISON'S DISEASE?
There are several factors that can cause Addison's disease, usually related to improper function of the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are very important for your dog's overall health, as they produce many important hormones to aid in proper function of your dog's body.
WHAT DOGS ARE PRONE TO ADDISON'S DISEASE?
Certain dog breeds are suspected to be more prone to develop Addison's disease. These breeds include Portuguese Water Dogs, Bearded Collies, Standard Poodles, Great Danes, and the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier. Dogs that have had surgery near the pituitary gland or hypothalamus may also develop Addison's disease (usually Secondary Addison's, since this would be a result of damage to the pituitary gland or hypothalamus). Generally, many cases of Addison's disease are seen in young or middle-aged female dogs. However, dogs of any age or gender are able to develop Addison's disease.
1. MUSCLE WEAKNESS, GENERAL LETHARGY
A common symptom of Addison's disease in dogs is a noticeable weakness in your dog's muscles. This is easily identifiable by observing any change in your dog's normal activities. Most dogs with Addison's disease will be unable to jump up on the bed, have trouble climbing stairs, or show a lack of any enthusiasm for any activity involving physical exertion.
Dogs with Addison's disease may also seem listless or depressed. They may show a lack of interest in normal everyday activities, and will spend a lot of time lying down.
This is a telltale sign that something is wrong, and should be a good reason to bring your dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible.
2. VOMITING AND DIARRHEA
Gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting and diarrhea are very common in dogs with Addison's disease. Dogs with Addison's disease may have either one or both of these symptoms, and their vomit or diarrhea may be accompanied by traces of blood. However, both of these symptoms are also symptoms of many other diseases, so it is impossible to positively diagnose a dog with Addison's disease purely on basis of vomiting and diarrhea.
3. HYPERPIGMENTATION
A dog with Addison's disease will often display small patches or spots of darkened skin, even in areas not exposed to the sun. This is most common around a dog's armpits, mucous membranes, or the inside of the cheek.
4. JOINT PAIN
Joint pain is very common in dogs with Addison's disease. This is usually an easily identifiable symptom, as your dog will show a reluctance for any activity involving excessive movement. A dog with Addison's disease may also whimper or yelp when walking, or may walk with a noticeable limp.
5. LACK OF APPETITE
This symptom is a definite sign that a dog is suffering from a medical condition. A dog with Addison's disease may show a lack of enthusiasm for mealtimes, and may eat in smaller portions than normal. Though this symptom is not unique to Addison's disease, it should be treated as an indication that your dog may need veterinary attention.
6. SHIVERING OR MUSCLE TREMORS
Dogs with Addison's disease may also shiver, or shake uncontrollably on a regular basis. Muscle tremors are not to be ignored, as they can be a symptom of many other serious health conditions besides Addison's disease. If your dog is exhibiting muscle tremors, or occasionally shakes uncontrollably, it is strongly recommended to seek veterinary attention immediately.
