Tuesday

Hyperthyroidism in Dogs Early Detection

Dog health is very important to all dog lovers out there. Knowing some of the diseases that might affect our dogs will help in the prevention and in curing our canine companion. One of the rare diseases that affect dogs is hyperthyroidism, which we'll be going into further in a moment.

The Thyroid gland is one of the largest Endocrine gland in the body. It produces thyroid hormones which are important in regulating many metabolic processes in the body by producing thyroid hormones the most primary of which are the triiodothyronine (T3) and the thyroxine (T4). It is important to dogs as it regulates the rate of metabolism and also affects their growth. Although rare in dogs, one ailment which have been documented to affect the thyroid glands of dogs is hyperthyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism in dogs occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormones, particularly thyroxin, usually because of a tumor in the gland. It is bad for dog health because it can cause weight loss, hyperactivity, and restlessness.

If you want to check your dog to see if it is suffering from hyperthyroidism and to catch it early on, be sure to watch out for the following symptoms or changes in dog health.

1. Weight Loss – Despite eating the same amount of food or even more, dogs that have
hyperthyroidism may lose weight. This is probably one of the symptoms which can easily be observed. If your dog is eating a lot of food yet is losing weight then you better consult your vet right away.

2. Increased Activity or Restlessness – Dogs that have hyperthyroidism tend to be hyperactive. An increase in the activity of your dog or increased restlessness can be caused by the high thyroid hormones. Take note of any surprising hyperactive or restless behavior in your pooch and report any prolonged peculiar behavior immediately.

3. Increased Heart Rate – the high production of T3 in the body causes the heart rate of the canine to rise. Check your pet's heartbeat from time to time to catch any abnormal increase in heartbeat early.

4. Increase in Water Intake and Urination – Water is important to dog health. But if you observe that your canine is drinking more water than usual for an extended period of time it may be caused by hyperthyroidism.

If you notice any of the above symptoms pay a visit to your veterinarian immediately. There are several treatments available in order to cure your pet and to improve your dog's health. Options which are practicable range from medication to the more intensive option of surgery. Discuss with your veterinarian what option you would like to take. A healthy dog is a happy dog so be sure to pay close attention to the dog health of your pet so that you may catch hyperthyroidism early and stop it in its
tracks.


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