Once the diagnosis for Addison’s disease is confirmed, treatment is simple and consists of hormone replacement. As the adrenal glands are damaged, your dog will require ongoing medication for the rest of its life.
With treatment you will notice an improvement in your dog’s quality of life, and they will be able to live a normal and active life. However if left untreated Addison’s disease can be potentially fatal.
Your dog will receive an injection of Zycortal from your veterinary surgeon, around once a month. Zycortal replaces the missing aldosterone, the hormone responsible for maintaining hydration and blood pressure.
Dogs with Addison’s disease will require additional cortisol around periods of stress, injury or illness. What constitutes stress varies from one dog to another; it can be physiological, such as a medical procedure or injury, emotional such as a visit to the vet, changes to life at home or fireworks.
It is advised that you consult your vet if you are aware of a situation where your dog may become more stressed, or they are ill or injured.
It is important that you follow your vet's instructions and return for all follow up blood tests and injections, it may be necessary for your vet to adjust the dose.
If you notice any changes or become concerned about your dog’s health you should consult your veterinary surgeon immediately.
Although Addison’s disease requires medical treatment to be successfully managed your vet may also suggest some nutritional support such as an Endocrine diet, tailored specifically to support dogs with a hormonal disorder.
