9 year old Shi Tzu diagnosed with Cushing's Disease

[jmm519]

Hello,

My 9 year old Shi Tzu, Tessa, was just diagnosed with Cushing's Disease. She hasn't shown many symptoms other than 1-2 urinary tract infections over the past year. She seems like my same old happy pup. The vet told me to research two medicines - Trilostane and Lysodren. They both seem to have scary side effects and are quite costly. In my research and after talking to my vet I realize not only does the medicine cost a lot, but so do the tests that need to be done frequently. I absolutely love my dog and would do anything for her. I don't want her to suffer in any way, but I'm not sure I can financially afford this. When I told the vet my concerns he said since she isn't showing many symptoms that he wouldn't do anything right now. What are your experiences? What would you do? I certainly don't want Tessa to suffer, but not only can I not afford the treatment but they also sound extremely risky. Any advice you have is appreciated. Thanks!

[Harley PoMMom]

Hi and welcome to you and Tessa!

So glad you found us and we will help in any way we can. Could you get copies of all tests that were done on Tessa and post those results here? With respect to the blood chemistry and complete blood count (CBC), you need only post the highs and lows and please include the normal reference ranges. We are especially interested in the results of the tests that were used to diagnose her Cushing's.

Cushing's is a very slow progressing disease and it takes a long time before that excessive cortisol to cause harm. A good number of our members come here scared to death of the drugs used to treat Cushing's. I assure you that it is perfectly normal to be afraid at this stage of the game. We've all been there and most of us have learned through experience and education that our fears were unfounded. In our experience, the primary cause of adverse reactions to the drugs is an inexperienced and uneducated vet who does not follow dosing or monitoring protocol. This becomes an even bigger problem if an uneducated pet owner places blind faith in an inexperienced vet.

We totally understand about the cost with Cushing's, the initial expense is during the diagnostic phase, the cost of treating usually goes down significantly after you've got the diagnosis confirmed and the treatment underway. If your girl is not showing any of the most common symptoms of Cushing's, which are excessive drinking/urinating, ravenous appetite, skin/hair issues, then why does the vet think she has Cushing's?

The goal of treatment is not to cure Cushing's but to help control the symptoms from Cushing's, that is why strong symptoms are a huge part of a diagnosis. If she were my dog I wouldn't pursue any Cushing's treatments or testing.

Hugs, Lori