Hypothyroidism In Dogs

Natural Hypothyroidism Treatment for Pets

Though usually thought of as a human disease, hypothyroidism in dogs is not an uncommon condition. As with people, hypothyroidism in dogs, cats and other pets occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough of the hormone thyroxine, a substance that plays an important role in regulating metabolism.

Hypothyroidism in pets causes the same symptoms as the condition causes in people. For example, dogs who are overweight, losing hair or suffering from skin problems may have hypothyroidism.

Other signs of hypothyroidism in pets include lethargy and disinterest in exercise or play as well as intolerance to cold, which can be suspected if the dog seems intent on finding warm places to lie in.

In dogs, mid to large size breeds are more likely to suffer from hypothyroidism than small breeds. Golden Retrievers, Dobermans, Irish Setters, Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers and Airedale Terriers are among the breeds that are more likely to develop the condition.

It is most common to see hypothyroidism first develop in dogs that are between 4 and 10 years old. Though it occurs in both males and females at about the same rate, spayed females are more likely to develop hypothyroidism than females who are not spayed.

Hypothyroidism in animals is diagnosed the same way as it is in people.

A blood test can determine the levels of thyroid hormone in the animal’s blood, and if levels are low, hypothyroidism is diagnosed. In 95% of cases, hypothyroidism is a result of destruction of the thyroid gland. In half of these cases, the thyroid is destroyed due to an autoimmune condition in which thyroid cells are mistaken for toxins and destroyed by the dog’s own immune system.

Another form of the disease occurs when the thyroid gland atrophies and becomes infiltrated with fat. It is not clear what causes this form of hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroidism in dogs and cats can be treated conventionally with drugs or by using a natural hypothyroid remedy. Fortunately there are plenty of natural remedies that work really well.

Natural Hypothyroidism Treatment for Dogs and Cats

An effective natural hypothyroidism treatment for dogs and cats usually contains one or more herbs known to combat symptoms of the condition.

For example, the sea vegetable focus vesiculosis, also known as bladderwrack or kelp, can help stimulate metabolism and boost thyroid function.

Kelp is also rich in iodine, which is often deficient in cases of hypothyroidism. Focus vesiculosis has been used for thousands of years in Chinese medicine, and it is as effective in animals as it is in humans.

Another natural hypothyroidism treatment is Huang Qi, or astragalus membranaceous, a general endocrine system tonic.

In addition, Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosis) is an energizing herb that can help combat the fatigue and lethargy associated with hypothyroidism in dogs and cats. Another stimulant, urtica urens is used traditionally to regulate metabolism and improve thyroid and adrenal function.

Ideally, a formula containing a mixture of effective natural thyroid remedies should be used for maximum effectiveness. One such product is Thyro-Pet, a comprehensive formula of 100% natural ingredients that are effective in treating hypothyroidism in pets. A natural hypothyroidism treatment for dogs and most pets such as Thyro-Pet might be all he (or she) needs to get healthier and start playing again full of energy.

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