Showing posts with label canine cushing's disease. Show all posts
Showing posts with label canine cushing's disease. Show all posts
Friday, February 2, 2024

How Long Can Dogs With Cushing's Disease Live?


The prognosis for dogs with Cushing's disease can vary depending on several factors, including the underlying cause of the condition, the age and overall health of the dog, and how well the disease responds to treatment. Here are some general points regarding the prognosis for dogs with Cushing's disease:


Early Detection and Treatment: Dogs that are diagnosed early and receive appropriate treatment often have a better prognosis. Early intervention can help manage the symptoms and prevent the progression of the disease.  Natural supplements for dogs with Cushings Disease and diet changes can often help. 

Underlying Cause: The prognosis may also depend on the underlying cause of Cushing's disease. There are different forms of the disease, including pituitary-dependent and adrenal-dependent, and the treatment approach may vary accordingly.

Treatment Response: Some dogs respond well to treatment, while others may require ongoing management and adjustments to medications. Regular veterinary check-ups and monitoring are essential to assess the dog's response to treatment and make any necessary adjustments.

Possible Complications: Cushing's disease can lead to other health issues, such as diabetes, urinary tract infections, or muscle weakness. Managing these complications can impact the overall prognosis.

Quality of Life: With proper management, many dogs with Cushing's disease can maintain a good quality of life. This includes controlling symptoms, such as excessive thirst and urination, panting, and skin issues.

It's important to note that while some dogs can live for several years with well-managed Cushing's disease, the condition is typically chronic and may require ongoing care. 


Author:  Susan Blake Davis, Pet Nutritionist

Friday, May 19, 2023

Know The Signs of Canine Cushing's Disease


As dogs get older, some may start developing signs of Canine Cushing's disease Symptoms may come on gradually and may be mistaken for aging. Symptoms may include increased water drinking, frequent urination, panting, a potbelly, thinning skin and hair loss. Canine Cushing's disease is an endocrine disorder. The endocrine system is responsible for producing and secreting hormones, which are the body's chemical messengers. Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) results when the body produces too much cortisol (the "fight-or-flight" hormone). It can weaken the immune system and cause pain and discomfort.

Many laboratory tests for Cushing's disease can be inconclusive and/or show abnormal liver values. If values are within or close to normal range, they may not seem concerning. Repeated and progressive elevations in certain enzymes, like alkaline phosphatase (ALP), may be a clinical sign of Cushing's disease. Quite often there is NO definitive diagnosis, just subtle signs. Many dogs are diagnosed with "probable Cushing's" or pre-Cushing's syndrome.

Conventional treatment for Canine Cushing's disease often involves the use of medication such as trilostane or mitotane, aimed at regulating cortisol production. While these medications can be effective in managing symptoms, they may come with potential side effects that pet owners should be aware of. Common side effects include lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Additionally, long-term use of these medications may pose risks to the liver and adrenal glands. It's essential for pet owners to work closely with their veterinarians to monitor their dog's response to medication, adjusting dosage as needed and regularly checking for any adverse effects. Although conventional treatments play a crucial role, some pet owners may explore complementary approaches, such as diet modification and natural supplements, to complement their dog's overall well-being and minimize reliance on medications.  Ask Ariel’s Canine Cushing's Support is made with phosphatidylserine. Phosphatidylserine is a well-researched nutrient that has been clinically shown to reduce cortisol levels. Many clients use  Canine Cushing’s Support along with the Liver Support Kit, flax lignans and melatonin to effectively manage their dog's cushing's symptoms.


Posted 5/19/2023

Author:  Susan Blake Davis

Revised: 2/2/2024


Friday, August 5, 2022

Natural Supplements Keeps 18 Year Old Beagle Healthy and Happy



I'm a doctor (for humans) and because I'm well aware of all of the side effects that accompany medications, I always choose to go the all-natural route first for all of my fur-babies. I've been using Ask Ariel products for several years now and have been more than pleased with the results. The picture I posted is of my 18 year young beagle, Bella. Bella has K9 Cushing's and she's been on Ask Ariel's formula (by the same name) for a few years now. We've been able to keep her healthy, happy and still active. She walks/runs 1/2 mile every day and looks forward to her car rides. I have 2 dogs and 5 cats and I rely on Ask ariel products to keep them healthy. Great Job Ask Ariel. BTW...I continue to learn so much from your newsletters. ~Dr. Valerie Monteiro

Wednesday, June 22, 2022

How To Help Your Dog's Cushing's Disease



 Ask Ariel’s holistic approach to treating Canine Cushing's Disease is a comprehensive. Along with diet changes, it’s important to use 3 types of supplements to properly affect hormone levels and support your dog’s overall wellness. Here is a summary:


1. Phosphatidylserine - AskAriel’s Canine Cushing's Support helps reduce cortisol levels.

2. Liver support supplements. Chronically increased cortisol can lead to elevated liver enzymes or liver disease. Ask Ariel's K9 Liver Support Kit can help to reduce elevated liver enzymes

3. Lignans & Melatonin - Melatonin and lignans inhibit enzymes that are used in cortisol production. Research studies conducted at the University of Tennessee - Knoxville (UTK) concluded that melatonin can help reduce excessive cortisol levels. Lignans have also been studied for their role in blocking enzymes needed for cortisol production.

Many dogs with Cushing's disease have mild symptoms which can be successfully managed without medication. To learn more please click here