Regular veterinary exams are essential for maintaining your pet’s long-term health. Even pets that appear healthy at home may have underlying conditions that are not visible.

The Importance of Baselines

During annual exams, your veterinarian establishes baseline health information—weight, heart rate, temperature, and other vital signs. This allows for comparison over time, so subtle changes can be identified before they become serious.

Early Detection

Many illnesses are easier to treat if caught early. Conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, heart disease, and thyroid disorders may not show obvious signs at home but can be detected during a routine exam.

What Happens During an Exam

Exams typically include:

• Full physical assessment (heart, lungs, eyes, ears, skin, teeth, abdomen)
• Body condition scoring and weight management guidance
• Discussion of diet, behavior, and lifestyle
• Recommendations for vaccines, parasite prevention, and diagnostics

Annual exams give you and your veterinarian the tools to catch potential problems early, provide preventive care, and ensure your pet lives a long, healthy life.

Vaccines for Dogs

At ARC Animal Hospital, we commonly recommend the following vaccines for dogs:

• Rabies: A fatal virus that attacks the nervous system and can be transmitted to humans. Required by law.
• DHLPPA (Combination Vaccine): Protects against several serious diseases:
  
  • Distemper: A severe viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Often fatal.
  • Hepatitis (Adenovirus): Affects the liver and can cause fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
  • Leptospirosis: A bacterial infection spread through contaminated water or wildlife urine. Can affect the liver and kidneys and is transmissible to humans.
  • Parvovirus: A highly contagious virus that causes severe vomiting and diarrhea, often leading to dehydration and can be fatal, especially in puppies.
  • Parainfluenza: A respiratory virus that contributes to kennel cough and other upper respiratory infections.
• Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Protects against a highly contagious respiratory infection that causes coughing, nasal discharge, and can spread quickly in social environments like boarding or grooming facilities.

Vaccines for Cats

For cats, we typically recommend:

• Rabies: A fatal virus that affects the nervous system and can be transmitted to humans. Required by law.
• FVRCP (Combination Vaccine): Protects against:
  
  • Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (Herpesvirus): Causes upper respiratory infection, sneezing, and eye discharge. Can become chronic.
  • Calicivirus: Another respiratory virus that can cause oral ulcers, sneezing, and infection.
  • Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper): A highly contagious and often fatal disease that affects the immune system and causes severe gastrointestinal illness.
• FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus): A virus that suppresses the immune system, making cats more susceptible to infections, anemia, and certain cancers. Most commonly spread through close contact with infected cats.

Parasites are a common concern for pets and can affect their health year-round. Many parasites are not only uncomfortable for your pet but can also lead to serious health issues, and in some cases, can be transmitted to humans.

Fleas

Fleas are one of the most common external parasites. They can cause:

• Intense itching and skin irritation
• Allergic reactions, known as flea allergy dermatitis, which can cause severe redness, hair loss, and skin infections
• Secondary infections from scratching and biting

Fleas reproduce rapidly and can infest your home, making consistent prevention critical.

Ticks

Ticks attach to your pet’s skin and feed on blood. They can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, and Anaplasmosis. Pets that spend time outdoors, especially in wooded or grassy areas, are at higher risk.

Intestinal Parasites

Common intestinal parasites include roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms. They can:

• Cause diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, and poor growth in young pets
• Lead to anemia in severe infestations
• Be transmitted to humans, particularly children

Prevention

Routine parasite prevention is the most effective way to protect your pet. Your veterinarian will recommend the appropriate medications based on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and risk factors. Monthly preventives for intestinal parasites, fleas, and ticks, as well as yearly heartworm prevention, are key to keeping pets and families safe.

Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that affects both dogs and cats. It is caused by parasites that live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels, leading to severe damage over time. The good news is that heartworm disease is preventable, and early protection is key to keeping your pet healthy.

How Heartworm Disease is Spread

Heartworm disease is spread through mosquito bites. When a mosquito bites an infected animal, it picks up microscopic baby worms (microfilariae). These develop into infective larvae inside the mosquito over 10 to 14 days.

When that mosquito bites another dog, cat, or susceptible animal, the larvae enter the body through the bite wound. Over the next several months, they mature into adult heartworms and travel to the heart and lungs, where they can grow up to 10–12 inches long.

Once mature, heartworms can live for several years—typically 5 to 7 years in dogs and 2 to 3 years in cats—continuing to cause damage and reproduce.

What Are the Signs of Heartworm Disease in Dogs?

In the early stages, many dogs show few or no symptoms. As the infection progresses, signs may become more noticeable.

Common signs include:

• Mild, persistent cough
• Decreased energy or reluctance to exercise
• Fatigue after activity
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss

As the disease advances, dogs may develop heart failure or fluid buildup in the abdomen, causing a swollen appearance.

In severe cases, a life-threatening condition called caval syndrome can occur. This happens when large numbers of heartworms block blood flow within the heart and can lead to sudden collapse. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, pale gums, and dark-colored urine. Immediate treatment is critical in these cases.

How Heartworm Prevention Works

Heartworm prevention works by eliminating the immature (larval) stages of the parasite before they can develop into adult heartworms. Once heartworms reach adulthood, they are much more difficult—and risky—to treat.

Because of this, prevention must be given consistently and on schedule to be effective.

Types of Heartworm Prevention

Oral Heartworm Prevention:
Oral medications are given monthly and work by killing larvae already present in the bloodstream. When given every 30 days, they prevent these larvae from developing into adult heartworms. Missing doses—even by a short time—can allow the parasites to mature and increase the risk of infection.

Injectable Heartworm Prevention:
Injectable prevention is administered once every 12 months. It works by slowly releasing medication over time, providing continuous protection throughout the year without the need for monthly dosing.

Both options are highly effective when used as directed. Your veterinarian can help determine which option is best for your pet.

Testing for Heartworms

Routine testing is an essential part of heartworm prevention.

Heartworm Antigen Test (SNAP Test):
This test detects proteins from adult female heartworms and can typically identify infection about 5 to 7 months after exposure.

Direct Heartworm Test:
This test looks for microscopic larvae (microfilariae) circulating in the bloodstream.

When Should Dogs Be Tested?

• Puppies under 7 months of age can start prevention without testing
• Dogs over 7 months of age should be tested before starting prevention
• All dogs should be tested annually, even if they are on prevention year-round
• Dogs that have missed doses or had gaps in prevention should be retested

If prevention is not started within 30 days of a negative test, another test may be required before medication can be dispensed.

Why Annual Testing Matters

Heartworm prevention is highly effective, but no method is 100% foolproof. Missing doses, giving medication late, or issues such as vomiting a pill or improper application of topical products can leave pets unprotected.

Annual testing ensures that your pet remains protected and allows for early detection if infection does occur.

A Preventable Disease

Heartworm disease can be severe, costly, and dangerous to treat—but it is also highly preventable. Staying consistent with prevention and annual testing is the best way to protect your pet from this serious condition.

Spaying and neutering are important procedures that play a key role in your pet’s long-term health, behavior, and overall quality of life. In addition to preventing unwanted litters, these procedures help reduce the risk of serious and potentially life-threatening medical conditions that we commonly see in veterinary practice.

What is the Difference?

• Spaying: Surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus in female pets
• Neutering: Surgical removal of the testicles in male pets

Why Spaying is Important (Females)

Spaying provides significant health benefits, especially when performed at the appropriate age.

One of the most serious conditions we see in unspayed females is pyometra, a severe and life-threatening infection of the uterus. This condition can develop quickly and often requires emergency surgery. Without prompt treatment, it can be fatal.

Spaying also greatly reduces the risk of mammary (breast) tumors, especially when performed before the first heat cycle. Pets that go through multiple heat cycles have a significantly higher risk of developing these tumors later in life.

Additional benefits include:

• Eliminates heat cycles, which can involve bleeding, behavioral changes, and attracting male animals
• Prevents unwanted pregnancies
• Reduces stress on both the pet and the owner

Why Neutering is Important (Males)

Neutering provides both medical and behavioral benefits for male pets.

Medically, it eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and can help reduce prostate-related issues as pets age.

Behaviorally, neutering can help reduce:

• Roaming (which lowers the risk of getting lost or injured)
• Marking and territorial behaviors
• Certain types of aggression

It’s important to note that neutering does not change your pet’s personality or take away their “identity.” Your pet will remain the same companion you know—the procedure simply helps reduce hormone-driven behaviors that can lead to health risks or unsafe situations.

Recommended Timing

The ideal timing for spaying or neutering depends on your pet’s species, breed, and overall health:

• Cats: Typically recommended around 4–6 months of age
• Dogs: Commonly recommended around 6 months of age

For female dogs, we often recommend spaying before the first heat cycle to significantly reduce the risk of mammary tumors.

For larger breed dogs, timing may vary, as hormones can play a role in growth and bone development. Your veterinarian will help determine the best timing based on your pet’s individual needs.

A Preventive Approach to Lifelong Health

Spaying and neutering are routine procedures, and most pets recover quickly with proper care. More importantly, these surgeries are a proactive step in preventing serious medical conditions that can be costly, stressful, and life-threatening.

By choosing to spay or neuter your pet, you are making a decision that supports their long-term health, safety, and well-being.

Dental health is an essential part of your pet’s overall well-being. By age three, most dogs and cats show signs of gingivitis or periodontal disease, and up to 85% of pets over the age of three are affected. Left untreated, dental disease can lead to tooth loss and allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys.

Signs of Dental Disease

• Bad breath
• Red or swollen gums
• Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
• Difficulty eating or chewing

Prevention and Care

• Tooth brushing: Brushing your pet’s teeth daily with pet-safe toothpaste is one of the most effective ways to prevent plaque and tartar buildup.
• Dental chews: Chews and dental toys help reduce plaque, but avoid rawhides as they can cause choking or digestive blockages.
• Professional dental cleanings: ARC provides dental cleanings under anesthesia, allowing for a thorough cleaning above and below the gumline. Anesthesia ensures the procedure is safe, thorough, and stress-free for your pet.

Regular dental care significantly reduces the risk of systemic illness caused by oral bacteria and improves your pet’s comfort and quality of life.

Proper nutrition plays a vital role in your pet’s overall health and longevity. Feeding a balanced diet appropriate for your pet’s age, size, and activity level is essential.

The Importance of Nutrition

• Supports healthy growth and development
• Maintains a healthy weight
• Prevents chronic diseases such as diabetes, joint issues, and heart disease

Obesity in Pets

Excess weight is one of the most common health issues in pets. Overweight pets are at higher risk for:

• Arthritis and joint problems
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Shortened lifespan

Feeding Recommendations

Your veterinarian can help determine:

• The best type of food for your pet
• Appropriate portion sizes
• Feeding schedules based on life stage and activity level

Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important steps to keep your pet happy and healthy.

Microchipping is a simple and permanent way to identify your pet if they become lost. Unlike collars or tags, a microchip cannot fall off or be removed.

How It Works

A microchip is a small device, about the size of a grain of rice, implanted under your pet’s skin. Each chip has a unique ID number linked to your contact information.

Why It’s Important

• Pets with microchips are far more likely to be reunited with their owners if lost. Studies show that up to 80% of microchipped pets are returned home, compared to only 20–30% of unchipped pets.
• Even indoor pets benefit, as accidents or escapes can happen unexpectedly.

Keeping your contact information up to date ensures your pet can always be identified.

Congratulations on Your New Puppy!
We are so excited to welcome you and your puppy to the ARC family! Puppies are full of curiosity and energy, and with the right care, you can help them grow into healthy, happy adult dogs.

Diet:
Feed your puppy a high-quality puppy food. We recommend Science Diet Puppy or Purina Pro Plan Puppy. For large breed puppies, use the large breed formulas to support proper growth and joint development. Puppies need consistent meals, access to fresh water at all times, and should not be free-fed unless advised by your veterinarian.

Protecting Your Puppy:
Until your puppy has completed their vaccinations, they are very vulnerable to disease. Avoid parks, sidewalks, and areas frequently visited by other dogs. Limit exposure to unknown dogs and environments that may harbor infectious diseases.

Vaccines & Boosters:
We vaccinate puppies every 4 weeks starting at 8 weeks of age:

• 8 weeks: DHPPA (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus, Adenovirus), Bordetella, Dewormer
• 12 weeks: DHLPPA (Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus, Adenovirus), Dewormer
• 16 weeks: DHLPPA, Rabies

Vaccines protect your puppy from serious, potentially fatal diseases. Stay on schedule and always consult your veterinarian with questions.

Heartworm, Flea & Tick Prevention:
Heartworm prevention can be started as early as 8 weeks of age. Heartworms are parasitic worms transmitted by mosquitoes. They live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels, causing severe damage, heart failure, and sometimes death. Florida has a high risk of heartworms, so year-round prevention is critical. Fleas and ticks are also very common and can carry diseases, so consistent prevention is essential.

Spay/Neuter:
Spaying or neutering your puppy is recommended after 6 months of age. For females, spaying should be done before the first heat, usually between 6-8 months of age (with the exception of giant breeds). Spay/neuter helps prevent unwanted pregnancies, reduces the risk of certain cancers, and can improve behavior.

Socialization & Training:
Early socialization is important for your puppy’s behavior and confidence. Introduce your puppy to new people, animals, and environments in a safe way.
We recommend Wallace K9 Training: (407) 891-8393 for professional guidance. Positive reinforcement training helps prevent behavior problems and strengthens the bond with your puppy.

Toys & Enrichment:
Puppies are curious and may chew or swallow inappropriate items. Puppy-proof your home by keeping small objects, shoes, and children’s toys out of reach. Avoid rawhide, as it can pose a choking or intestinal blockage risk. Provide safe chew toys and mental enrichment to keep your puppy engaged.

Congratulations on Your New Kitten!
We are so excited to welcome you and your kitten to the ARC family! Kittens are playful, curious, and full of personality. With proper care, you can help them grow into healthy, confident adult cats.

Diet:

Feed your kitten a high-quality kitten food. We recommend Science Diet Kitten or Purina Pro Plan Kitten. Kittens need nutrient-dense food to support rapid growth and should be fed measured meals 2–3 times daily. Provide fresh water at all times. Avoid free-feeding unless recommended by our veterinarian.

Protecting Your Kitten:

Until your kitten has completed their vaccinations, they are vulnerable to contagious diseases. Keep them indoors only during this period. Avoid contact with unknown cats or areas where unvaccinated animals may have been.

Vaccines & Boosters:

We vaccinate kittens every 4 weeks starting at 8 weeks of age:

• 8 weeks: FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia), Dewormer
• 12 weeks: FVRCP, FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus), Dewormer
• 16 weeks: FVRCP, FeLV, Rabies

Vaccines protect your kitten from serious and potentially fatal diseases. Staying on schedule is essential—please reach out with any questions.

Flea & Tick Prevention:

Prevention can begin as early as 8 weeks of age, depending on the product. Fleas are extremely common in kittens and can lead to anemia, skin disease, and intestinal parasites. Consistent prevention is recommended even for indoor-only cats.

Litter Box Care:

A clean litter box is essential for your kitten’s health and to prevent inappropriate bathroom habits.

• Scoop litter boxes at least once daily.
• Fully change and wash the box weekly.
• The rule of thumb is:
  Number of cats + One extra litter box
  (For example, 1 cat = 2 litter boxes.)

Place litter boxes in quiet, easily accessible areas to encourage proper use.

Indoor Safety (Highly Recommended in Florida):

We strongly recommend keeping your cat indoors. Indoor cats live significantly longer, healthier lives. Florida has many outdoor dangers, including:

• Cars and traffic
• Hawks and other large birds of prey
• Alligators
• Snakes
• Infectious diseases
• Parasites
• Fights with other animals

Keeping your cat indoors protects them from these risks and prevents them from becoming lost or injured.

Spay/Neuter:

Spaying or neutering your kitten is recommended at 5–6 months of age. Spaying females before their first heat greatly reduces the risk of mammary cancer. Neutering males helps prevent spraying, roaming, and unwanted behaviors. Spay/neuter also prevents accidental litters and supports long-term health.

Toys & Enrichment:

Kittens love to play and explore! Keep small objects, strings, hair ties, ribbons, and children’s toys out of reach to prevent accidental swallowing or blockages. Provide safe toys, scratching posts, and climbing structures to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

As pets age, their care needs change. Senior pets are more prone to chronic conditions, but proactive management can help them live comfortably and longer.

When is a Pet Considered Senior?

• Small to medium dogs: around 7 years old
• Large dogs: 5–6 years old
• Cats: 7–8 years old

Common Age-Related Conditions

• Arthritis and decreased mobility
• Kidney or liver disease
• Diabetes
• Dental disease
• Changes in vision, hearing, or behavior

Recommended Care

• Exams every 6 months for early detection of changes
• Routine bloodwork to monitor organ function
• Adjustments to diet, activity, and medications as needed
• Weight management to support joints and overall health

Regular care helps identify subtle changes early, ensuring your senior pet stays comfortable, active, and healthy.

Ear infections are common in dogs and cats and occur when the ear canal becomes inflamed. They can affect the outer, middle, or inner ear. Ear infections can be caused by bacteria, yeast, or allergies, and chronic infections can lead to discomfort, hearing loss, or secondary complications.

Symptoms of Ear Infections

• Scratching or pawing at the ear
• Head shaking or tilting
• Redness, swelling, or odor in the ear
• Discharge or crusting
• Sensitivity or pain when touching the ear

Causes and Risk Factors

• Bacterial or yeast overgrowth in the ear
• Allergies, which make the ear more prone to infection
• Excess moisture from swimming or bathing
• Ear structure (dogs with floppy ears are more prone)

Treatment of Ear Infections

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity:

• Oral antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Medicated ear drops to reduce inflammation and fight infection
• Allergy medications if the infection is related to allergic skin disease
• Regular ear cleaning to prevent recurrence

Prompt treatment improves comfort, prevents chronic infections, and protects hearing.

Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious and resilient virus that attacks a dog’s gastrointestinal tract. Puppies and unvaccinated dogs are most at risk. While the virus itself doesn’t directly cause death, it damages the intestinal lining and weakens the immune system, which can lead to severe infections in the bloodstream and potentially fatal complications.

How Canine Parvovirus Affects Dogs

• The virus enters through the tonsils or lymph nodes and invades lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell.
• It spreads through the bloodstream to areas such as the bone marrow and intestinal lining.
• Damage to the intestines allows bacteria to enter the bloodstream (septicemia), which can be life-threatening.

Symptoms of CPV

Signs of infection can vary, but commonly include:

• Severe vomiting
• Profuse diarrhea, often with a strong odor, mucus, or blood
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Fever

How Dogs Become Infected

• The virus is primarily spread through feces of infected dogs.
• Infected dogs begin shedding the virus shortly before symptoms appear and continue shedding for up to 14 days after recovery.
• Dogs can become infected by ingesting the virus, which can be present on:
  
  • Hair or feet of infected dogs
  • Shoes, clothing, or objects contaminated with feces
  • Surfaces in public areas (parks, lawns, or homes)

Key Facts About CPV’s Resilience:

• Extremely hardy and resistant to heat, detergents, alcohol, and many disinfectants
• Can survive for months outside an animal, even through winter
• Can be present on surfaces for over 3 months
• A small amount of virus can infect a dog, making isolation critical for infected pets

Treatment for CPV

There is no medication that directly kills the virus. Treatment focuses on supportive care to help the dog recover and prevent complications:

• Intravenous or subQ  fluids to prevent dehydration
• Antibiotics to prevent secondary infections
• Antinausea and antidiarrheal medications
• Monitoring and supportive care depending on severity

Prompt veterinary attention is vital for improving outcomes, especially in puppies.

Prevention of CPV

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent parvovirus.

Recommended Vaccine Schedule:

• Puppies: First vaccine at 8 weeks, with boosters every 4 weeks until 16 weeks of age
• Adults: Annual booster
• Keep unvaccinated puppies away from public areas and other unvaccinated dogs

Vaccination protects your dog from all common parvovirus types and is the best defense against this serious disease.

Feline diabetes is similar to canine diabetes but usually develops as type 2 diabetes, meaning the body produces insulin but cannot use it effectively. High blood sugar can cause serious health problems if left untreated.

Symptoms of Feline Diabetes

Signs may include:

• Increased thirst and urination
• Changes in appetite (increase or decrease)
• Weight loss despite normal eating
• Lethargy
• Poor coat condition
• In some cases, weakness in the hind legs or difficulty walking

Cats often hide symptoms, so careful observation is important.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Obesity is the most significant risk factor
• Age: middle-aged to older cats are more prone
• Certain medications (e.g., corticosteroids)
• Chronic illnesses such as pancreatitis or hormonal disorders

Treatment of Feline Diabetes

Management involves stabilizing blood sugar and supporting the cat’s overall health:

• Insulin injections, often long-term, to control blood sugar
• Prescription diets to maintain stable glucose levels
• Weight management and regular exercise
• Regular veterinary checkups to adjust insulin and monitor response

Early diagnosis and treatment can improve long-term outcomes, and some cats may go into remission with proper management.

Canine diabetes is a condition in which a dog’s body cannot properly regulate blood sugar (glucose). This happens when the pancreas either does not produce enough insulin or the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that moves glucose from the bloodstream into cells to provide energy. Without enough insulin, glucose builds up in the blood, leading to health complications.

Symptoms of Canine Diabetes

Signs of diabetes in dogs often include:

• Increased thirst and urination
• Increased appetite but weight loss
• Lethargy or reduced activity
• Urinary tract infections
• Cloudy eyes (cataracts may develop)

Symptoms may develop gradually, so early detection is important for successful management.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Genetic predisposition (some breeds are more prone)
• Obesity
• Hormonal imbalances or other illnesses
• Middle-aged to older dogs, with female dogs slightly more at risk

Treatment of Canine Diabetes

Management focuses on controlling blood sugar and maintaining your dog’s overall health:

• Insulin therapy is required in most cases to regulate glucose levels
• Prescription diets designed for diabetic dogs can help maintain stable blood sugar
• Consistent feeding schedule and regular exercise
• Home or veterinary blood glucose monitoring to ensure insulin doses are correct

With proper treatment, dogs with diabetes can live long, healthy, and active lives.

Pancreatitis is a condition in which the pancreas becomes inflamed. The pancreas is an organ located near the stomach that produces digestive enzymes and hormones, including insulin. Inflammation can interfere with these vital functions and can be mild and self-limiting or severe and life-threatening.

Symptoms of Canine Pancreatitis

Symptoms can vary depending on the severity but often include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy or weakness
• Abdominal pain (may appear as a “hunched” posture)
• Fever

Some dogs may show only subtle signs, especially older pets or those with underlying conditions.

Causes and Risk Factors

• High-fat diets or sudden ingestion of fatty meals
• Obesity
• Certain medications
• Trauma or surgery
• Breed predispositions (Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire Terriers, and other small breeds are more prone)

Treatment of Canine Pancreatitis

Treatment focuses on supportive care to reduce inflammation and help the dog recover:

• Hospitalization for close monitoring
• IV fluids to prevent dehydration and support organ function
• IV medications for pain, nausea, and inflammation
• Low-fat diet to reduce stress on the pancreas
• Close monitoring for complications such as organ dysfunction or infection

Prompt veterinary attention improves outcomes, and some dogs may require hospitalization for several days depending on the severity of the disease.

Cushing’s disease, also known as Cushing’s syndrome, is a condition in which the adrenal glands overproduce certain hormones. The medical term for this disease is hyperadrenocorticism:

• “Hyper” = over-active
• “Adreno” = adrenal gland
• “Corticism” = outer part (cortex) of the adrenal gland

The adrenal glands are located near the kidneys and produce several vital substances that regulate body functions and are necessary for life. The most widely known of these is cortisol, a natural steroid.

• Normal levels of cortisol help the body respond to stress, regulate weight, maintain tissue structure, support skin health, and keep the immune system functioning properly.
• Too much cortisol, as occurs in Cushing’s disease, weakens the immune system and can make the dog more susceptible to infections and other health problems.

Symptoms of Cushing’s Disease

Cushing’s disease can cause a wide range of signs, including:

• Increased thirst
• Increased urination
• Increased appetite
• Reduced activity or lethargy
• Excessive panting
• Thin or fragile skin
• Hair loss
• Recurrent skin infections
• Enlarged abdomen, resulting in a “potbellied” appearance

Symptoms often develop gradually, and some dogs may show only subtle changes at first.

Treatment of Cushing’s Disease

While Cushing’s disease is typically lifelong, it can usually be managed with medications:

• Vetoryl (trilostane) is the only FDA-approved medication to treat both pituitary- and adrenal-dependent Cushing’s in dogs. It works by reducing cortisol production in the adrenal glands.
• Regular veterinary checkups and blood tests are critical to monitor your dog’s response to treatment and adjust dosages as needed.
  
  • Bloodwork is typically frequent during the first few months of treatment, then every few months once stabilized.
• Management may include adjustments to diet, exercise, and monitoring for secondary health issues.

With careful monitoring and treatment, many dogs with Cushing’s disease live comfortable, active lives.

Addison’s disease occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones, including cortisol and aldosterone. These hormones are essential for maintaining blood pressure, electrolyte balance, and overall body function. Without enough of these hormones, a dog’s body can become weak, dehydrated, and unable to respond to stress properly.

Symptoms of Addison’s Disease

Signs may develop slowly and can be subtle, including:

• Lethargy or weakness
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Low blood pressure (may appear as weakness or collapse)
• Shaking or trembling

In severe cases, dogs can experience an “Addisonian crisis,” which is life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary care.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Most commonly caused by immune-mediated destruction of the adrenal glands
• Can be triggered by other illnesses or abrupt withdrawal of steroid medications
• Some breeds are genetically predisposed, including Standard Poodles, Bearded Collies, Great Danes, and West Highland White Terriers

Treatment of Addison’s Disease

Addison’s disease is lifelong but manageable with medication:

• Oral hormone replacement therapy to replace missing cortisol and aldosterone
• IV fluids and medications during an Addisonian crisis
• Regular blood tests to monitor electrolyte levels and adjust medication doses

With proper treatment, dogs with Addison’s disease can live healthy, active lives.