Companion Animals

Dog Addison's Disease: Lifelong Management

Addison's disease (hypoadrenocorticism) causes dogs to be unable to produce essential stress hormones; it is life-threatening but very manageable with lifelong treatment.

Key Facts

Addison's is caused by destruction of the adrenal gland cortex, usually immune-mediated
It is known as the 'great pretender' due to vague, waxing-waning symptoms
Addisonian crisis causes collapse, vomiting, and shock requiring emergency hospitalization
Desoxycorticosterone pivalate (DOCP) injections every 25 days replace mineralocorticoids
Oral prednisolone provides glucocorticoid replacement with dose increases during stress

Welfare Considerations

Dogs with undiagnosed Addison's experience episodic crises that are genuinely life-threatening and acutely distressing. After diagnosis, the welfare picture changes dramatically - with consistent medication, dogs live full, healthy lives. The key welfare challenge is ensuring owners understand to increase steroid dosing during stressful events like illness, surgery, or travel.

What You Can Do

Learn the signs of Addisonian crisis to seek emergency care immediately
Carry emergency hydrocortisone and instructions from your vet when traveling with your dog
Increase prednisolone dose (stress dosing) before anticipated stressful events
Wear a medical alert tag for your dog indicating Addison's disease status