Companion Animals

Companion Dog Addison's Disease Crisis Management

Emergency management of Addisonian crisis in dogs and welfare of acutely affected animals.

Key Facts

Addisonian crisis presents with collapse, weakness, and cardiovascular shock
IV fluid resuscitation and emergency dexamethasone are life-saving interventions
Dogs in crisis require immediate intensive care hospitalisation
Once stabilised, dogs are transitioned to long-term DOCP and prednisolone management
Stress including illness, trauma, or surgery can precipitate crisis in Addisonian dogs

Welfare Considerations

Addisonian crisis causes acute life-threatening welfare emergency, and owner awareness of crisis signs and rapid veterinary response are critical welfare interventions.

What You Can Do

Learn to recognise signs of Addisonian crisis in diagnosed dogs
Tell all veterinarians your dog has Addison's disease before any procedure
Carry an emergency medical card for your Addisonian dog at all times