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This condition is fairly commonly seen in our dogs
today. Some breeds seem to be more affected by
the disease than others. Doberman Pincers and
Golden Retrievers are most commonly affected, although
any dog is susceptible. Hypothyroidism usually
affects middle to older aged individuals.
The thyroid gland produces a hormone, thyroxine, which
contributes to an individual's metabolism ( the break
down and processing of nutrients in the body).
When, the gland is non-functional, the patients metabolism
is quite low. An overweight, tired condition can
be the result, with or without the skin being affected.
The cause of hypothyroidism is poorly understood, however
the thyroid gland appears to be affected by the patients
own immune system, which can completely destroy the
gland in some cases.
When symptoms of gaining weight, tiredness, or reoccurring
skin disease are seen, your veterinarian can run a thyroid
level in your dog to determine if it is affected.
Early disease can show borderline low results, in which
case the veterinarian may wish to repeat the test in
a month or so.
If the condition is diagnosed, the patient can be supplemented
with synthetic thyroid hormone given on a daily basis.
Subsequent blood tests may be done to determine if the
dose of thyroid hormone is appropriate, and adjust
the dose when necessary. This condition is quite
successfully treated.
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