Dogs with Cushings Disease – How to Handle the Symptoms

Cushings disease in dogs is a condition that affects pets negatively because of an overproduction of a hormone called cortisol.  Dogs with Cushings disease experience a number of symptoms, usually when a tumor appears on the adrenal glands or the pituitary gland. It affects the ability of the adrenal gland to produce the right amount of cortisol. 

What are some of the effects of imbalanced hormone production?

Symptoms of Cushings Disease in Dogs

• Increased hunger
• Appearance of a pot belly
• Lethargy
• Excessive shedding
• Overall tiredness
• Skin infections and slow healing

Other Reasons for Cushings Disease Symptoms

Sometimes dogs with Cushings develop symptoms because of steroid treatment they are receiving to aid other medical problems.  The dog’s body can mistake the steroids in the medication for natural hormones produced by the body. Then the body system seeks to displace them by overproducing its own supply of cortisol.  Dogs with Cushings have a few treatment options to help bring cortisol levels back to normal.  Sometimes, surgery is required to rid dogs of tumors or other related problems.

Cushings Disease Treatment Options

Your vet may tell that you surgery is not an option or that there are other choices available. What choices are available? You normally have the choice between artificial medications or holistic pet treatment.  Certain ingredients like dandelion, burdock and Huang Qi are included in herbal healing treatments to cleanse and revitalize the systems of dogs with Cushings disease.  There is no reason why dogs should be subject to more pills. In fact, in many cases it is the pills that were the source of the problem in the first place.  Holistic treatments for pets are increasing in popularity.  There is a growing reaction against chemicals and overly processed products that may be causing a growing number of cases of Cushings syndrome in dogs every year.

If you have a dog that is a Terrier breed and reaching middle age, you need to be particularly aware of cushings symptoms.  The earlier sick dogs are able to receive Cushings disease treatment, the better off they will be.  A holistic approach is a safe and effective alternative to surgery, which should be a last resort in order to save life.  Fortunately, if caught early, canine Cushings disease is managable and you can have your furry friend around for many more enjoyable years to come.

Now that you know there are natural options available, find out more by clicking "MORE INFO."