Hypothyroidism is a disorder of the thyroid gland. This gland has many functions, which include regulating a dog’s metabolic rate. In hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland does not secrete enough of the thyroid hormones levothyroxine (T₄) and liothyronine (T₃). This, in turn, decreases the dog’s metabolism.

Most cases of hypothyroidism stem from the dog’s own immune system attacking the tissues of the thyroid gland. When the dog’s system compensates for this by secreting more thyroid hormone, the gland will eventually be unable to keep up with the attacks on its tissue resulting in disease. Thyroid disorders can also be genetic.

Signs include: a loss of hair, usually on the tail, hind quarters or flank that is not a result of scratching; dry scaly skin, dull brittle hair, bleaching of the hair coat and possible development of hyperpigmentation and oily skin. The dog may also become lethargic and overweight, seek out warm places and have cold clammy skin.

Most dogs who are affected by hypothyroidism fall into the mid to large size category. Many breeds can beaffected by this disease, including (but not limited to): Golden retrievers, Doberman pinschers, Greyhounds, Irish setters, Dachshunds, Cocker spaniels, and Airedale terriers. Hypothyroidism is typically rare in toy and miniature breeds of dogs.

Diagnosis begins with a thorough examination and reviewing the pet’s history including overall health and behavior. If hypothyroidism is suspected, blood tests will be ordered. There are a number of different methods for testing the thyroid, however, the most common is a baseline T₄ test or total T₄ test. Dogs with a failure of the thyroid gland will have a lowered level of the T₄ hormone. Additional tests may also be required for accurate diagnosis.

Hypothyroidism is treated with a daily dose of synthetic thyroid hormone called thyroxine (levothyroxine). The historic gold-standard treatment for hypothyroidism is Soloxine® thyroid hormone supplementation.

Approximately four to eight weeks after diagnosis and the initial treatment phase, the veterinarian takes a blood sample and examines the dog to determine if a change in dosage is needed. The pet owner must administer the proper medication according to the veterinarian’s instruction. Most symptoms should clear up after treatment. Medication and routine check-ups are necessary throughout the lifetime of the pet to maintain a healthy and happy dog.

The pancreas is a gland that is part of the digestive system. It produces enzymes that help break down food. If these enzymes become activated within the gland, the pancreas begins digesting its own tissue, creating inflammation, or pancreatitis. Middle-aged to older female dogs are more likely to develop pancreatitis. Dog breeds with a higher incidence of the disease include the miniature poodle, cocker spaniel, and miniature schnauzer. Pancreatitis is more difficult to diagnose in cats than in dogs.

Typical symptoms include vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. The severity of the disease and response to treatment will vary from case to case.

Diagnosis and treatment are aimed at identifying and eliminating any underlying causes of pancreatitis. The disease is best prevented by correcting obesity, ensuring that the animal does not eat high-fat foods, and preventing other conditions associated with pancreatitis. Three daily feedings of a bland and easily digested diet containing sufficient quantities of good quality proteins and carbohydrates and low levels of fat and fiber are recommended. Pancrezyme® is given with each meal at a dosage sufficient to keep the feces normal.

In exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, Pancryzyme® replacement therapy must be a life-long regimen.

Potassium is a necessary electrolyte. It facilitates the conduction of nerve impulses and the contraction of skeletal and smooth muscles, including the heart.

One cause is excessive urination, chronic vomiting, or decreased dietary intake.

The recommended therapy is to administer a potassium gluconate supplement, such as Virbac’s Tumil-K twice a day.

The normal urinary pH range for healthy cats is 6.0 – 6.5.

Some cats are prone to problems of the lower urinary tract, which can affect the bladder and the urethra.

According to the article, Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease, posted on the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine Web site, cats will strain and make frequent and prolonged attempts to urinate, but usually the amount of urine passed during each attempt is quite small. Affected cats tend to lick their genital area excessively, and sometimes they will urinate outside the litter box, often preferring cool, smooth surfaces like a tile floor or a bathtub. Occasionally, there will be blood present in the urine.