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FAQs-Answers

Q1. What signs does a hypothyroid dog have?
A: Thyroid hormone is central to many processes in the body. This means that dogs with hypothyroidism can show a wide range of signs. These signs often develop slowly and are not always very obvious. Sometimes the signs are confused with those of normal aging.

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Q2. How is hypothyroidism diagnosed?
A: Clinical signs (such as lethargy, weight gain and skin or coat changes) can be suggestive of hypothyroidism. Laboratory blood tests are needed to confirm the diagnosis.

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Q3. When should I start to signs of improvement in my dog?
A: Some signs of hypothyroidism (such as activity) start to improve in as little as a few days to a week. Other signs (such as skin and coat changes) may take longer - even up to a few months. Hypothyroid dogs lose weight gradually and should have their exercise increased gradually.

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Q4. 4. When will my dog need to go back to the vet?
A: Thyroid hormone replacement therapy is tailored to suit each individual patient's requirements. You will need to visit your veterinarian periodically to check whether the dose of the thyroid hormone replacement therapy needs to be adjusted. Follow up blood samples will usually be taken to be taken to check that your dog is getting sufficient treatment. This is usually carried out about one month after treatment is started. This is because it takes some time to restore the thyroid hormone levels in the body. Similarly, if the dose of thyroid hormone is changed, a blood sample is usually taken 2 to 4 weeks later to check that this dose is suitable. After your dog has been on treatment for a longer period and is on a suitable dose for its own needs, then checkups at least twice a year will be needed to ensure that your pet stays healthy.

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Q5. What is the prognosis?
A: Although, there is no cure for hypothyroidism, it is a disease that is easily managed using thyroid hormone replacement therapy. If treatment is given regularly, according to your veterinarian's instructions, then the response to treatment and prognosis for your dog will both be good.

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Q6. How long will I need to treat my dog?
A: There is no cure for hypothyroidism. This means that hypothyroid dogs require lifelong treatment. Luckily hypothyroidism is easy to treat and dogs respond well to treatment.

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Signs to look out for include

lethargy, stiff and slow movements or lack of endurance
increased sleeping
reluctance to go for walks
tendency to gain weight, even on the same food
increased sensitivity to cold and seek warm places
changes in the skin and hair coat