Pre-diagnose

[Dalton tiny sheltie]

I have a 7 yr old, 10lb, male sheltie (he's quite tiny) who is showing signs of Cushings. Dalton is loosing the pigment in his fur on his face and has lost quite a bit of fur on his hind legs and rear. Potty breaks are now every 90 minutes. He has taken Thyroxine (0.2 - twice daily) for the past 3 years and has had 2 seizures, all exercise induced which began when he was 5 yrs. old. No treatment was offered by the vet. for the seizures but advice was to limit his exercise.

Does anyone have a recommendation as to where I should have his blood work processed to determine if we are looking at Cushings and the best possible course to follow to help him?

[Squirt's Mom]

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[goldengirl88]

Welcome to you and Dalton. Sorry he is having problems. There are many tests that are done to confirm Cushings, if your vet is not familiar with Cushings maybe you could seek out an IMS. There is the LDDS test, ACTH test, Urine Test, Blood panel and Ultra sound to determine the type of Cushing your dog may have. This is a complicated disease and therefore requires several tests as other diseases have similar symptoms. Is your dog drinking a lot, peeing a lot, hungry all the time, Pot belly? Those are some signs. You will want to keep a daily diary on your dog, and get copies of all testing. You will then need to post all abnormal readings, and the guide that lab uses for normal as all are different. We will be able to guide you better after you get us the numbers. You have found the best place for knowledge and support for your baby. Everyone will guide you thru this and answer your questions. I see your baby weigh 10lbs.
Has you dog been tested for anything else besides the thyroid? The others will be on to welcome and help you. You will get thru this we all do, it makes it easier to have this wonderful forum. Blessings
Patti

[Renee]

Hello,

It's good that you want to start with some bloodwork.

Your regular vet should be able to help you, if they are familiar with cushings, but like Patti suggested, an internal medicine specialist is a good idea too.

I personally am working with my general practice vet, but we have a unique relationship that not all people have with their vets. If you have any doubts about your vet, try finding one that knows cushings and can help you through the process.