Dogs’ hypothyroidism occurs when their thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormone. This hormone is quite significant since it regulates important body functions. When thyroid hormone levels become too low, your dog can develop a number of health issues. The good news? Treatment is easy and effective.
A reliable vet will normally give your dog hormone tablets to take each day that will replace what your dog’s thyroid is no longer making. This makes your dog a normal, happy self again. With good care and regular visits to the vet, your dog can live a healthy, happy life.
What is the Thyroid Gland?
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-like gland at the front of your dog’s neck, below the voice box. It sends thyroid hormone into the blood to maintain your dog’s metabolism, heart rate, and levels of energy functioning normally. It maintains everything in balance and functioning in the correct order.
Why is Thyroid Hormone So Important?
Thyroid hormone has a significant function in controlling most of your dog’s body processes. According to the RSPCA Knowledgebase, the thyroid gland plays a critical role in regulating metabolism and other essential body functions. When it doesn’t produce enough hormone, a dog’s overall health and energy levels can be affected.
How Thyroid Hormone Affects Your Dog’s Body
It touches nearly every cell and organ in the body, assisting in regulating how fast the heart will beat, how energetic your dog will be, and how the body process’s food. When thyroid hormone levels are just so, your dog is feeling fine. Too much hormone hastens things; too little handicaps.
We find at Centenary Vets that dogs suffer when their thyroid hormone level reduces, but luckily, with treatment, they can soon be restored to full health.
Why Isn’t My Dog Producing Enough Thyroid Hormone?
Normally, the thyroid gland simply ceases to function as it should. This could occur due to the immune system of the dog fighting the thyroid mistakenly, or the gland losing strength with time.
These issues typically progress slowly and may not be apparent initially. Less commonly, hypothyroidism is brought about by thyroid cancer or a condition at birth. If you’re worried about your dog’s thyroid, the team at Centenary Vets can run the right tests to find out what’s going on.
How Do I Know if My Dog Has Hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism occurs most in middle-aged and senior dogs. Since symptoms come about gradually, owners believe that their dog is normally aging.
Common Signs of Hypothyroidism in Dogs
- Low energy or less interest in playing or walking
- Sleeping more than usual
- Gaining weight even without eating more
- Skin problems like thinning fur, dull coat, or recurring infections
- Being more sensitive to cold weather
How Will the Vet Diagnose Hypothyroidism?
According to the Australian Veterinary Association, endocrine disorders like hypothyroidism are typically confirmed through blood tests that measure thyroid hormone levels, alongside clinical signs and vet examination.
Most often, hypothyroid dogs will have low thyroid hormone and elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). At times an ultrasound may be advised to check for any lumps or irregularities in the thyroid gland.
At Centenary Vets, we treat these tests with seriousness to ensure your dog receives the proper diagnosis and treatment.
Can Hypothyroidism Be Treated in Dogs?
Even though hypothyroidism cannot be cured, it is simple to treat. Your veterinarian will probably prescribe your dog a daily pill of thyroid hormone (referred to as Thyroxine) to replace what their body is not able to produce.
What to Expect After Starting Treatment
After your dog begins the medication, you will notice a significant improvement. They’ll have more vitality, their coat will be healthier looking, and they’ll just plain look happier in general. With suitable treatment, your dog can have a long and healthy life once more.
What Kind of Ongoing Care Does My Dog Need?
Once treatment begins, your dog will require periodic check-ups to ensure the dose of the medication is appropriate. This typically involves blood work at one month, three months, six months, and then six-monthly thereafter. Your veterinarian will also examine your dog’s weight and may recommend an ultrasound on an annual basis.
Keeping Your Dog on Track
Even if your dog appears healthy, stay with regular vet checks to see changes before they become major issues. If you see any new illness issues or changes in behaviour, don’t be afraid to ring your vet for guidance. At Centenary Vets, we’re here to assist you in keeping your dog at their best.
A Fresh Start for Your Dog: Moving Forward with Treatment
Hypothyroidism is prevalent but controllable with treatment. With proper care and constant follow-up visits to your vet, your dog will regain their energy and be back to normal. And if you ever notice something amiss with your dog’s health or behaviour, phone your vet immediately. The quicker you do something about it, the quicker your dog will be back to happy and healthy.
