Question:
I have a 5 1/2 year-old male Brussels griffon named Callie. Callie was diagnosed with primary Addison's disease almost two years ago. Since Callie's diagnosis, his doctor has recommended that he receive a Percorten injection every five weeks, in addition to 1/4 tablet of prednisone 5 mg daily.
Callie struggles with stress, so I try to eliminate as much stress as possible on a daily basis. During a recent examination, his doctor detected a heart murmur and recommended that Callie see a cardiologist for his heart defect. I worry about the additional stress this may cause (in regard to visiting a new office) and understand that his daily dose of prednisone does have a significant impact on his heart.
In your opinion, would Callie benefit from seeing a cardiologist? I understand there may be nothing they can do for his heart murmur. Callie is a very sweet and loving dog, and he depends on me to make the right choices for his medical care. Your time and thoughts are greatly appreciated.
A.S., Fairfax, Va Oct 29, 2011
Answer:
Your poor dog's condition is unfortunately quite common in dogs today, but the cause of this condition of poorly functioning or exhausted adrenal glands is not yet known. It could be a condition of breed and temperament, coupled with an as-yet unidentified external trigger. These triggers may include an increasing number of so-called endocrine disrupters, as well as injections or vaccinations that are associated with evoking autoimmune diseases. (For documentation, see my website www.twobitdog.com/DrFox.)
You must continue with the hormone replacement medication and periodic monitoring. Supplements of buffered vitamin C with bioflavonoids, N,N-dimethylglycine, licorice and melatonin may help the adrenal glands.
Many dogs have heart murmurs, and I would not subject Callie to further tests at this time. Supplements such as magnesium and coenzyme Q10 should benefit his heart muscle. But any signs of fatigue, swelling of limbs or abdomen, pale or bluish gums, or coughing and difficulty breathing warrant an immediate heart checkup.
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