How to Care for a Dog With Cushing's Disease

Cushing's disease usually occurs in older dogs and, in many cases, is caused by a benign tumor of the adrenal gland.The adrenal glands produce cortisol, a very important hormone that helps to regulate the body's metabolism. You can recognize Cushing's disease by some symptoms such as excessive eating, drinking and urination. While this disease is not curable, it is manageable through diet and supplements so your dog can have a good quality of life.

Things You'll Need

  • Lysodren treatment
  • Dried dandelion
  • Dried burdock
  • Dried nettle

Instructions

  1. Treatments

    • 1

      Have your dog's Cushing's disease treated by your veterinarian with Lysodren. This drug works by destroying the outer layer of the adrenal gland, limiting its ability to produce cortisol. As with many chemotherapy treatments, expect some adverse reactions to the chemicals. Watch for symptoms that include lethargy, lack of appetite, diarrhea and vomiting. Always be sure to let your veterinarian know if your dog is exhibiting any of those symptoms.

    • 2

      Add a dandelion supplement to your dog's diet. This herb is rich in vitamins, minerals and potassium and acts as a diuretic and liver stimulant to help replace minerals lost to excessive urination. Just dry the greens and crumble them onto your dog's food. Alternatively, make an herbal leaf tea by boiling the greens in unsalted vegetable or meat broth and adding it to your dog's food.

    • 3

      Include the herb burdock in your dog's diet. This is a highly effective herb for the detoxification of the body. Its chemical components can remove toxic substances that threaten your dog's health and helps balances his immune system.

    • 4

      Include nettle in your dog's daily meal. This herb is an excellent tonic, as it provides nutrients for the entire body. Due to its nutritional value, this herb is an excellent herb tonic for your dog. It provides nutrients to the whole body. Sprinkle 1/2 tsp. of this dried herb over your dog's food daily.
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    • 5

      Try a change in diet as a healthy alternative. Provide your dog with a diet consisting of antioxidants to combat tumors and help his overall immune system.