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Addison's Disease and the Standard PoodleAddison's disease is a disease that generally affects specific breeds of dogs. Known as canine hypoadrencorticism clinically, it is a disease that decreases the adrenal glands steroid production. The adrenal glands in the dog typically makes hormones, such as steroids. The disease can be developed by a host of different ailments. These ailments might include:
Though these are the more common reasons, there are many different ways that your Standard Poodle could develop Addison's Disease. This disease is very serious in all dogs and should be detected and controlled right away. Though serious, in most cases, your Standard Poodle can still lead a productive and happy life, if the disease is medicine controlled. What are the Symptoms? Some symptoms to watch for include:
If your Standard Poodle has any of these signs, it is important to seek the help of your veterinarian right away. He or she will conduct a serious of tests, which will likely include a urinalysis, biochemistry profile, and a CBC (Complete Blood Count). The vet may also wish to perform x-rays of the chest area or electrocardiograms on your dog as well. If these test show an indication of Addison's disease, the vet will likely prescribe other tests such as a stimulation test known as ACTH. This allow sthe doctor to measure cortisol and aldosterone to check to see if the adrenal glands are working as they normally should. The good news is that even with the disease, if your Standard Poodle has the proper medical treatment and you keep in constant contact and communication with your veterinarian, he or she will have a great outlook on life. This disease does not have to mean the end, but it does mean that your dog needs medical attention and some prescription medication to keep the condition in check. In many cases, your veterinarian will prescribe your prednisone and ask that you keep it on hand at all times. If something were to happen, the prednisone will help your dog immediately. Addison's disease affects dogs of any breed. However, it seems that some dogs are more prone to the disease than others. For example, White Terriers, Rottweiler's, and Labrador Retrievers tend to have a higher risk of the disease than some other types of dogs. Furthermore, it seems that the younger the dog is, the more chance they have of developing the disease. It does not tend to target older dogs. Last, male dogs are less likely to get the disease, whereas female dogs are more likely. Typically, to treat a dog with this Disease, the immediate treatment will be intravenous fluids, along with some steroid drugs for replacement. The veterinarian may also take other steps to level off areas such as calcium, insulin, glucose, or potassium. These can also lead to a problem in a Standard Poodle who is suffering from Addison's Disease.
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