The Silent Threat: How Addison’s Disease Could Harm Your Dog

JFK had this. A disease that is difficult to diagnose, but important to be know about as it affects so many dogs..it’s a hormonal disorder affecting the adrenal gland called Addison’s Disease.

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If you have yet to try CBD for your dog (or cat!), especially for some of the more common conditions such as for arthritic pain relief, or recurrent urinary tract problems in cats, I personally think you should.

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This is the breed of dog that is most commonly affected by Addison’s…Poodles!!

Understanding Addison’s Disease in Dogs: Insights from Dr. Andrew Jones

Addison’s disease, or hypoadrenocorticism, is a condition where the adrenal glands near the kidneys fail to produce sufficient corticosteroid hormones. These hormones are crucial for managing stress and without them, minor stress can cause severe health issues in dogs.

The Role of Adrenal Hormones

The adrenal gland consists of the medulla and the cortex. The cortex is particularly important in the context of Addison’s disease as it produces corticosteroids. In dogs with this condition, there is a notable deficiency in these hormones. This deficiency might remain unexplained unless it’s linked to certain medications like ketoconazole, Lysodren, or trilostane. However, managing this disease is possible through hormone replacement, even when the cause remains unknown.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Addison’s Disease

Addison’s disease is often subtle and deceptive, earning it the nickname “The Great Pretender." Symptoms can include:

• Lethargy and weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Gradual weight loss
• Increased thirst
• Shivering
• Depression

These signs may appear vague and progress slowly, making early diagnosis challenging.

Commonly Affected Breeds

While Addison’s disease can affect any dog, it primarily impacts young female dogs around 4-5 years old, including breeds like the Great Dane, West Highland White Terrier, all sizes of Poodles, and Portuguese Water Dogs.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Initial Signs and Diagnosis Challenges

The disease may begin with nonspecific symptoms such as listlessness and occasional vomiting or diarrhea. Over time, these symptoms can lead to an Addisonian crisis, where the dog experiences severe shock, characterized by low blood sugar and high potassium levels, which can disrupt heart rhythm and cause life-threatening arrhythmias.

Blood Tests and Hormone Treatments

Diagnosing Addison’s disease requires specific blood tests focusing on electrolytes, as regular check-ups might not catch the imbalance. The definitive test is the ACTH stimulation test, which assesses how your dog’s adrenal glands respond to the hormone ACTH. Treatment involves replacing the missing hormones, typically with medications like Fludrocortisone and prednisone.

Supportive Care Through Supplements

Enhancing your dog’s diet with high-quality supplements can help manage Addison’s disease more effectively:

• Vitamins and Minerals: A balanced vitamin and mineral supplement can prevent crises.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Adding flax, fish, or krill oil can support adrenal health.
• Herbal Tonics: Herbs like Nettle, Dandelion, and Parsley can strengthen the immune system and help detoxify the body.
• Cannabidiol (CBD): CBD has shown promise in regulating mood and pain, and increasing appetite in Addison’s cases, potentially due to its effects on autoimmune responses.

Final Thoughts from Dr. Andrew Jones

Addison’s disease may not always be on every veterinarian’s radar, especially in breeds predisposed to the condition. If your dog shows consistent, vague symptoms, it’s crucial to discuss the possibility of Addison’s with your veterinarian.

Exploring CBD Options

For those interested in natural remedies, CBD could offer additional support in managing symptoms and possibly preventing the progression of Addison’s disease in its early stages.

If you suspect your pet might be showing signs of Addison’s or if you are interested in trying CBD, now is a great time to explore these options further to ensure the best care for your beloved companion.

For more detailed guidance and to access Dr. Jones’ Ultimate CBD for Dogs and Cats, feel free to visit our website.