- The vet draws a blood sample from your dog and tests it for thyroid levels. When the test shows low thyroid hormone levels, the condition is called hypothyroidism.
- Your hypothyroid dog is treated with thyroxin or thyroxine medication. This thyroid hormone replacement is available by prescription.
- Thyroxin is prescribed in a dose suited to your dog. The drug comes in several tablet sizes and under different names depending on the manufacturer.
- Your dog needs thyroid medication every 12 hours to keep the thyroid hormones at a healthy level. To maintain this level, tablet medication is given twice daily.
- Your dog benefits immediately from the medication. The first week the dog typically has more alertness and energy. Within a few months the dog usually converts fat to muscle and regains his skin and hair health.
- Each dog needs medication based on her thyroid level. Tests may be needed every 4 to 6 weeks until the right dosage is reached. Your dog needs medication the rest of her life.
