Thyroid disease is a common problem for dogs, particularly as they age. While hypothyroidism may be alarming for some pet owners, any qualified veterinarian will assure you that it’s a perfectly treatable condition. To learn more about thyroid issues in dogs and how it affects them, check out the guide below. 

What Is Hypothyroidism?

The thyroid gland is located in your dog’s neck near its windpipe and plays a large role in regulating metabolism and energy levels. The thyroid acts like the thermostat of the body. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones like thyroxine, which causes the metabolism to slow. It is often caused by damage to the thyroid gland, commonly due to lymphocytic thyroiditis, which is when the immune system doesn’t recognize the thyroid as part of the body and attacks it like a foreign object. When treated with medication and proper care from a veterinarian, dogs typically respond well and become asymptomatic.

What Are the Symptoms?

When the metabolism slows, many different systems in the body are affected. That means that hypothyroidism presents itself with one or more symptoms, including issues like lethargy, intolerance to cold, weight gain without a change in appetite, and increased shedding or a thinning coat. It may also present as resistance to exercise, thickening or dry skin, and even a slow heart rate. 

How Is It Treated?

Hypothyroidism is a chronic illness, meaning it is treatable but not curable. Your veterinarian will take blood samples to test your dog’s thyroid hormone levels. If needed, they will then prescribe your dog thyroxine, which is a replacement hormone to boost your dog’s thyroid function. The dosage will depend on their weight and current thyroid function. Once on the medicine, your friend will start feeling better right away! Lastly, your veterinarian will annually retest your dog’s thyroid levels to ensure their dose of medication is still effective.

Our pets are members of the family, that’s why they deserve high-quality care from experienced veterinarians, like the professionals at Elyria Animal Hospital in Ohio. Their knowledgeable team will diagnose your pet’s problems and offer effective treatment options to help them stay healthy. Treating pets from tiny puppies to fat cats, they offer specialized treatments and services, like pet laser therapy, dental care, grooming, and boarding. No matter what your pet’s needs are, their team will treat them with the gentle care and expertise they deserve. To schedule an appointment, call (440) 365-3818, or check out their website to learn more about their services.