Dog's Thyroid Glands

Introduction to Hypothyroidism

A condition resulting from the malfunctioning of the thyroid gland, leading to too little circulation of the hormone it produces. Idiopathic Hypothyroidism is one of the most common types seen in animals. This type of hypothyroidism is characterized by the absence of any biological reason for the malfunctioning gland. Familial thyroid inflammation – thyoiditis – is a close second. When left untreated, hypothyroidism can turn into a debilitating disease while it is curable, if treated properly.

Disease Symptoms

Initial symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

• Hair loss – tail or flank 

• Desiccated, scaly skin

• Brittle hair that has lost its shine,

• Bleached coat

• Oily skin

When allowed to go untreated, other symptoms may develop. Your canine will:

• Become overweight and lethargic

• Look for warm places to settle down

• Have cold, clammy skin

• Experience a drop in libido

• Go through a protracted anestrus or an abbreviated estrus

Disease Identification

Prior to diagnosis, your veterinarian will run a blood test and then prescribe medication on confirmation of the disease. Soloxine – Levothyroxine Sodium –tablets are a vet’s usual preference for this disease. He will most likely direct you to administer the tablets, once or twice daily.

Improvement in health is expected within two to four weeks while the dog’s coat will take longer to heal – it could take as less as one month to as long as six months, based on his hair growth rate.

Following Up

After a time of four to six weeks, go in and hand over a blood sample to your veterinarian as part of the follow up procedure. After the blood test, he might adjust the dose, so that proper thyroid blood levels are reached. Routine check-ups are required, if you want to keep your canine healthy and happy. Read more www.ccprotectiondogs.com

Your Dog's Eyes

Introduction

Keeping your Personal Protection Dogs in the pink of health should be your top priority. Among other problems is a health condition that is marked by cloudy eyes in dogs. This affliction is called keratitis and is caused when the cornea gets inflammation, turning cloudy.

Causal Agents

Common strains of bacteria that are to blame for keratitis are Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Pseudomonas.

Symptoms

The disease can be recognized by the presence of:

• swollen and matted eyelids

• hurting, reddening of eyes

• watery eyes

• squint

• light sensitivity

• eye irritation

• eye discharge

• cloudy eyes

Breeds Under Threat

A breed that is more likely to suffer from keratitis is the boxer – easily recognizable by its short nose and prominent eyes.

Description of the Disease

An infection bacterial in nature, keratitis is the result of a corneal ulcer going even worse. Due to the obstructed iris and pupil, only a limited amount of light can enter the dog’s eye.

End Result

The disease could cause loss of cornea layers, which makes it imperative that you stay vigilant and look for signs of the disease. The signs might not be too obvious at the onset of disease.

Solution

When you notice the signs, try to get your canine to the vet, immediately. An eye examination will include the vet inspecting both the eyes and the cornea. They will be looking for telltale corneal erosions. 

Treatment

On diagnosis, the severity of the disease will dictate the vet’s approach to rectifying it. Deep or worsening corneal damage could require hospitalization and surgery or frequent medical treatment. Alternatively, antibiotic could be prescribed.

Always be vigilant when it comes to the health of your Protection Dog – after all, a healthy dog is an active dog! Read More, www.ccprotectiondogs.com