Hypothyroidism, medically known as hypothyroidism, is one of the most common hormonal disorders in dogs. It mainly affects middle-aged to older dogs, with Golden Retrievers, Dobermans, Boxers, and Beagles being particularly susceptible.
The thyroid gland is located in the neck area of dogs and influences almost all metabolic processes in the body through the hormones T4, T3, and calcitonin that it produces. The cells of the thyroid gland require amino acids and iodine to produce the thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and thyronine (T3). A sufficient supply of iodine is therefore essential for a functioning thyroid gland. Hormone production is controlled and regulated by the pituitary gland. Thyroid hormones are involved in the following tasks:
If the thyroid cells are destroyed, hormone production decreases and the thyroid gland can no longer function properly. Depending on the cause of this destruction, a distinction is made between primary and secondary hypothyroidism. Chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland or an autoimmune disease that leads to the breakdown of hormone-producing tissue is referred to as primary hypothyroidism. If hypothyroidism is only a consequence or side effect of an underlying disease, such as Cushing's syndrome, it is referred to as secondary hypothyroidism. Certain medications can also lead to an underactive thyroid gland.
The disease usually develops very gradually, so that many dog owners do not notice the onset. The first, very unspecific signs include tiredness, lethargy, listlessness, an increased need for sleep, and a tendency to gain weight. The coat may become dull and brittle, and skin changes and inflammation may occur. Increased susceptibility to infection, sensitivity to temperature, heart problems, hearing loss, ear infections, and eye problems may also occur. A "sad" facial expression is often observed, which is due to thickening of the skin in the facial area. If you notice such a slowly progressive change in your dog, have it examined by a veterinarian in good time.
Based on your preliminary report and the clinical examination, the vet already suspects that your dog may have hypothyroidism. A blood test can provide further valuable information about the functioning of the thyroid gland and the general health of your dog. Changes in the blood count are not always immediately apparent at the onset of the disease, so further ultrasound examination may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
In some cases, despite appropriate symptoms, neither blood tests nor ultrasound examinations yield usable results. It is assumed that these dogs have subclinical hypothyroidism, which can only be confirmed by trial treatment with thyroid hormones.
If hypothyroidism is diagnosed, the missing thyroid hormones must be replaced. This requires daily administration of tablets to your dog. The dose is adjusted individually for each dog, starting with an initial dose. Especially at the beginning of treatment, hormone levels should be monitored closely by your veterinarian to adjust the dose as accurately as possible. Administering the medication at the correct time also has a major impact on the success of the treatment and requires a lot of patience and consistency on your part as the dog owner. Your vet will draw up a detailed treatment plan for your individual case and can send the medication for your dog digitally to petsXL, so that you can find all upcoming medication doses in your timeline and set reminders for yourself.
The first signs of success are usually seen after about seven to ten days, when the dog becomes more alert and lively. A reduction in skin symptoms and significant weight loss are usually only noticeable after several weeks. Since the destroyed thyroid tissue does not recover, the treatment must be continued for life.
It is not possible to cure a damaged thyroid gland. However, with well-adjusted and consistent treatment and regular veterinary check-ups, the symptoms mentioned above usually disappear completely and affected animals can once again lead a largely normal life.
The most important measure is an annual veterinary check-up with a clinical examination and monitoring of thyroid levels in the blood.
Squamous cell carcinoma is a malignant skin tumor that occurs in cats mainly in the mouth, ears, and nose. Starting in the uppermost layer of skin and mucous membrane, the squamous epithelium, this tumor spreads very quickly and aggressively. Cats of all breeds and ages can be affected, although older cats are more susceptible.
In dogs, as in humans, the anterior cruciate ligament often tears. This strong ligament connects the thigh bone to the shin bone in the knee joint and prevents the knee from overextending or twisting. However, while cruciate ligament tears in humans are usually traumatic in nature (caused by sports accidents of all kinds), in dogs the ligament gradually breaks down over a longer period of time (degeneration).
This infectious disease, also known as contagious equine anemia, is usually fatal and is caused by a virus that affects only horses, ponies, donkeys, and mules. The disease is widespread worldwide, but occurs only sporadically in Germany. It is a notifiable animal disease.
The bit attached to the bridle transmits your rein aids to your horse and is therefore a central link in rider-horse communication. As the horse's mouth is a particularly sensitive area, it is important that the bit suits you both. Choosing the right bit depends on the level of training of the rider and horse, the type of riding, the anatomy of the horse's mouth, the temperament and also the preferences of the horse.
Similar to humans, dogs of middle to advanced age can also develop a sugar metabolism disorder. Canine diabetes is the second most common hormone-related disease in dogs. The first noticeable symptoms are increased thirst and increased urination. If diabetes is detected early, the disease can be well controlled with lifelong insulin therapy. However, certain emergencies can also occur in the context of diabetes, requiring immediate veterinary treatment.
An ear fistula, also known as an ear cyst or ear base fistula in horses, describes a malformation occurring on one or both sides consisting of scattered tooth buds located as a cyst at the base of the horse's ear. Animals between three and twelve months old are most commonly affected.
An ECG is a measuring device used to diagnose heart disease. It measures the electrical impulses emitted by the heart's activity.
Blood pressure measurement determines the pressure in the blood vessels. It consists of two values, the systolic (higher) and diastolic (lower) blood pressure. Systolic blood pressure is measured when the heart contracts to pump blood out of the heart. As soon as the heart muscle relaxes and blood flows back in, the diastolic blood pressure is measured.
With increasing age, the number of cats suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD) rises. Between 30 and 40% of all cats over the age of 10 are affected. It often goes unnoticed for a long time. However, the gradual decline in kidney function continues to progress. CKD is one of the most common causes of death in cats and is unfortunately incurable.
Tumors on the ovaries of mares are among the most common growths of the female reproductive system. They can occur regardless of breed and age and are often the cause of behavioral abnormalities or disturbances in the mare's sexual cycle. Depending on the type of cell affected, different types of tumors can occur, but they are usually benign.
Tortoises are fascinating animals that many children love. But before you bring a tortoise into your home, you should be aware that there is much more to it than just finding them cute or interesting.
This disease is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the mare's reproductive system, which is mainly transmitted through mating. The stallion is only a carrier of the pathogen and does not show any clinical symptoms. The disease, known as contagious equine metritis (CEM), was first described in detail in 1977 and is a notifiable disease in Germany.
