Addison's disease (hypoadrenocorticism) is a potentially fatal endocrine condition in dogs caused by destruction of the adrenal cortex. Without adequate hormone replacement, affected dogs face life-threatening addisonian crises triggered by stress — making welfare management a daily commitment for owners.
Untreated Addison's disease causes dogs to live at risk of sudden collapse and death from any stressful event — travel, loud noises, illness, or emotional upset. The unpredictability of crisis creates chronic anxiety for both dogs and their owners. Well-managed Addisonian dogs can live full, normal lives, but owners must understand stress-dosing protocols — temporarily tripling glucocorticoid doses before anticipated stressors — to prevent crises. Welfare assessment must include monitoring for signs of medication underdosing (lethargy, reduced appetite) and overdosing (increased thirst, urination, weight gain). Emergency protocols shared with veterinary practices ensure rapid crisis intervention when needed.