Addison's disease is a rare disease of the endocrine system in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough steroid hormone. This disease is usually diagnosed in pets by performing blood work. Treating Addison's disease is done by replacing the absent hormones. Your pet must be seen every three to six months by a qualified veterinarian to ensure that the proper level of hormones is being administered. Finding a qualified vet can seem like a difficult task, but with some time and phone calls, you can find a suitable vet to treat your pet with Addison's disease.
Things You'll Need
- Telephone
Instructions
How to Find a Vet Specializing in Addison's Disease
Ask your regular vet for a referral to a vet that specializes in Addison's disease. Your regular vet will likely have a varied referral list.
Utilize a veterinary referral service, such as Find a Veterinarian. Referral services will allow you to look for a local vet that can meet your needs. Remember to call any vet that you are considering, and verify that he specializes in treating animals with Addison's disease.
Network with other pet owners and those interested in pets. Your groomer, friends with pets, and people who you meet at pet-friendly places such as the dog park may be able to refer you to a vet that specializes in Addison's disease.
Contact a veterinary school or vet tech school in your local area and ask for referrals to vets that specialize in Addison's disease. Veterinary students and vet tech students do their clinical rotations at a variety of pet shelters and animal hospitals. They may know of a vet that specializes in Addison's disease.