Thyroid Treatment for a Dog

Medication is the most commonly used treatment for canine thyroid problems.

Dogs suffering from thyroid problems, particularly hypothyroidism, which stems from an imbalance of thyroid hormones, are generally placed on medication to alleviate the problem. Some problems, which stem from cancer, may require surgery.

Medication

For thyroid imbalances, veterinarians generally place dogs on doses of one or both synthetic hormones called levothyroxine and triidothyronine.

Thyroiditis

Even dogs that have thyroiditis, the precursor to a fully underactive thyroid, must be placed on hormonal supplements to alleviate the risk of developing auto-immune disorders.

Frequency

Synthetic hormones are generally given twice daily. The exact dose and frequency, however, depends on the individual dog and the severity of the condition.

Surgery

Surgical removal of the thyroid is sometimes performed for hyperthyroidism, which is caused by cancerous nodules. Removing the gland can put the dog into hypothyroidism.

Radioiodine

When surgery is not an option, radioiodine treatments are used to kill overactive thyroid cells. The procedure requires a lengthy hospitalization, and not all animals are good candidates for it.

Homeopathy

Calming an overactive thyroid is possible with homeopathic remedies. The most useful are bungleweed, hawthorn, lemon balm and valerian.

References

• Dog Illnesses: Canine Hyperthyroidism
• Thyroid Diseases: Hypothyroidism in Dogs
• Dog Owner's Guide: Canine Thyroid Disease Can Be Tough to Diagnose
• Vet Info: Canine Thyroid Disease
• Pet Health: Dog Hyperthyroidism

Resources

• Working Dogs: So What's So Big About the Little Thyroid
• Dirt Dog: Hypothyroidism--Fears, Facts, Treatments & Controversies