Signs Your Dog Is Having an Addisonian Crisis

by petbucket on 22 May 2015 |

50 Comment(s)

Signs Your Dog Is Having an Addisonian Crisis

An Addisonian crisis is the result of undiagnosed Addison's disease in dogs. If your dog does not get immediate medical attention, she could die from multiple organ failure. The hardest part about Addison's disease is knowing your pet has it. Signs are subtle, and it takes an attentive dog owner to see the changes. Once diagnosed, Addison's disease is easily managed at a reasonable cost. Here are some tell-tale signs that your dog could be having an Addisonian crisis.

What is Addison's Disease?

Addison's disease is a genetic disorder where your dog's adrenal glands no longer produce the hormones necessary to deal with stress. The disease mostly affects female dogs, and it does not present symptoms until about the age of five.

Taking long walks, new dogs in the house, people moving in and out and a change of environment are all triggers for your dog's stress. Normally, your dog's adrenal glands excrete glucocorticoids to deal with the stress. In addition to glucocorticoids, the adrenal glands also release mineralocorticoids to balance electrolytes. When these steroids aren't excreted during stress, your dog is unable to handle it, electrolytes become imbalanced, and your dog's heart and kidneys cease to function. The result is a tragedy, but you can avoid it by rushing your dog to an emergency vet who can stabilize your pet.

Signs of a Crisis

To identify symptoms, you must know your dog's behavior. Even veterinarians tell you that Addison's disease is an extremely difficult disorder to diagnose unless the vet knows to take blood work. First, your dog will probably be more lethargic. If your dog normally follows you around the house, she will probably stop and lay there as you move around.

Next, your dog will lose its appetite and show signs of anorexia. She might try to eat, but as soon as she eats, she will vomit it up. Diarrhea is also a problem. Between the diarrhea and vomiting, the dog becomes dangerously dehydrated.

If you sleep with your dog, another noticeable sign is the shakes. The dog will shake as if she's cold or sick. She might try to sleep close to you for warmth, but she shakes and wakes you up.

What might throw dog owners off is that the dog will still drink water regularly. She will even walk regularly. Although, when she walks she won't want to go far distances and might even sit down. Your dog's behavior will be overall lethargic regardless of the activity.

If any of these symptoms are present with your dog, it's imperative that you immediately take the dog to a vet. If it's night time, find an emergency vet in your area. Dogs going through an Addisonian crisis will collapse fast, so it's important to act quickly.

Treating Addison's Disease

If you get your dog to the vet quickly, the vet will give the dog fluids, medication and stabilize her. Depending on how critical the condition, the dog could have sodium and potassium imbalances, a heart murmur and malfunctioning kidneys.

After your dog is stabilized, you can usually take her home after a couple of days. Your dog will be dependent on two medications: Prednisone and Percorten. Your dog will take daily doses of Prednisone. The dosage is determined by your vet. Percorten shots are given every month. Percorten is the more expensive treatment, but you can buy the bottle for about $200 and have the vet give your dog a shot for about $10 each visit. The Percorten bottle will last several months for a small dog. Prednisone is much cheaper. The Prednisone bottle costs about $15 each month.

A small dog will only need about 1.5mg of Prednisone each day. However, you'll need to double that dosage when you anticipate stressful times for the dog. For instance, if you take the dog to the vet, travel with her, introduce a new dog or have visitors, you need to double her dosage.

Prognosis for a treated dog with Addison's disease is very promising. As long as you get the dog to the vet during crisis symptoms, your dog will recover. Knowing your dog is key to identifying any further episodes, but with proper medication and treatment, your dog will live a long, happy life.

Comment(s)50

Christine Martin31 May 2015Reply

Hi, I was lucky my Vet suspected Addison's my dog a male lived for another 5 years he was 6 years old when we found out.

I Australia it is very much cheaper to get the VET to write a prescription for the tablets and get it from the chemist.

julie uchtmann25 Jul 2017Reply

My 2 year old Dachshund was just diagnosed this past week. By the time the hospital made this discovery,( we went through an Ortho and Neuro Surgeon) she was in crisis She spent 3 days in ICU and was sent home stable. Within 16 hours she had started shaking again, and was losing control of her back legs. I took her back to the hospital and they checked her labs, which had improved and I picked her up later that day. After only been home a couple of hours, her back end started swaying again, and she just didn't look well. I don't know what to do! She is on 5 different meds and i have already spent $5k. Why isnt she getting better? Does this take time, i.e weeks. I'm at a total loss as to what my next steps should be.

angelique25 Jul 2017Reply

Hi Julie, My dog is a Dachshund mix. She had an episode a couple months ago and almost died. It took my dog about a week to be back to her normal self. She walked very slowly for several days after her first shot. She is back to normal, though I noticed her personality has mellowed out a little bit since this happened, and the meds have caused weight gain due to increased hunger and thirst.. My dog's vet says her kidney numbers still aren't back to normal though and the event may have had effects on her kidneys. I hope your dog gets better soon!

Alicia 25 Jul 2017Reply

Hi Julie, I have a Chiweenie, diagnosed at 4 years old, he's 5 now. If your dog has addison's disease, theres no "getting better" sorry to say. It is an incurable disease, but managable. My pup takes 1/4 of 5mg of prednisolone every other day and .4ml of percorten v injecttion every 25 days, that will be for the remainder of his life. He spent a week in ICU when he had a crisis. To diagnose addison's disease the vet needs to do a blood test, and check your dogs electrolyte balance. If she is on 5 different meds, what are they for? Hope this was helpful. Addison's absolutely sucks, you are always at a constant worry, every time your dog shakes you think something is wrong. But if you love your dog and give them the help they need, they will live a happy life and love you back.

Diane 25 Jul 2017Reply

My dog today pit mix was diagnosed with Addison’s and reading everyone’s posts I’m not sure what to do. I don’t have a lot of money to invest if she goes into a crisis. I have to give her a shot tonight and start her 24hrs later on prednisone

Anna01 Oct 2017Reply

I had a Chihuahua/ Jack Russell he was on 4 yrs old & stopped eating, barking,every thing but drinking. Then we went to bed & woke up and he could no longer walk or sit up. I took it to my vet. Who kept him over night and still didn't respond to the meds. She advised me that my dog was very sick and even if he was on all the proper meds he could still relapse. I seen how sick my dog was and as much as it killed me I had to put him to sleep. I cry & miss him every minute as he was my side kick. But I couldn't let him suffer. Even he knew how sick he was. I pray for you all and your furbabies. But please don't let them suffer. And this disease can run into a very expensive illness. Please put your animal ahead of your own feelings. They feel miserable too. Hugs to all.

Maria01 Oct 2017Reply

Thank you for your words my chiewawa was diagnosed today and I feel Loss I don't want her to suffer and I too am on limited income she is 15 and has been a great companion.

Kat06 Dec 2017Reply

Addison's is a sad disease and it's imperative that you tune into your animal friend. I have had the lovely opportunity of knowing a beautiful German Short-haired pointer who was diagnosed around 2 or 3 with Addison's. Her human parent passed away and their son, my BF, adopted her at 8 1/2 years old and she very quickly she slipped into a very grave Addisonian crisis episode. She survived and over the last 5 years I have helped care for her and came to love her as my own. Amazingly she lived to 13.5 and finally we had to put her down a few days ago. My advise is to learn and understand everything about their behavior and this disease, so as to avoid losing them before their time is up. Zoey lived a good life in spite of it all. She will be missed.

Samantha06 Dec 2017Reply

I have a German short hair pointer that has just been diagnosed as of last week! She was in crisis mode and in ICU for 3 days. She's home now and started her first month of prednisone pills. She lost 10 pounds during her crisis and is verge anerxic. When your pointer went through crisis modes did they lose weight? And if so how long did it take for them to start gaining back?? Im just worried cause my poor baby just doesnt quite have a full appetite yet and doesn't seem to be putting much of her weight back on :(

Debbie Lockyer 04 Jan 2018Reply

A very sad disease and very hard to reckonise, tonight I have had to put my 4year old pomapoo to sleep as she was so poorly.

lja04 Jan 2018Reply

so sorry for your loss 🙏🏻

AMY21 Feb 2018Reply

My German Short haired pointer Grand Dog is 5 and a month and half ago he went into Addison crisis, he was barely alive by the time we got him to the Emergency clinic. I'm happy to say he pulled through but he has lost a lot of weight he doesn't eat he doesn't want to drink water and the vet is not helping us cope with this is it normal?

Cheryl21 Feb 2018Reply

Maybe the vet should be prescribing anti-nausea medicine if he doesn't want food and water? Is your dog on a steroid and percorten? The steroid should make your dog hungry and thirsty.

One of my spaniel/point/plott hound mix dogs was diagnosed last year after going into Addisonian Crisis. Was in ER for 5 days. Lost 20 pounds. Fur was falling out, was losing control of legs. Wouldn't eat or drink anything. She was 4 when diagnosed.

My other dog, her sister, is starting to slide too. Had issues with diarrhea last month. Took antibiotics and probiotics and that righted the issue, but she continued to be lethargic. Also, she was getting dehydrated because she had no interest in drinking water. A few days ago she started vomiting. Can't hold food down and has no interest in anything other than sleep. We've been to the vet every morning for the past 3 days. Finally today they admitted her and I asked for the Addison tests to be run again. They ran them last month and one came back low normal and the ACTH came back normal.

Maybe the vet needs to check your dog's electrolyte levels again? If he is on a steroid and on percorten, maybe the dosage isn't right?

I do remember that when my first dog was diagnosed, she had zero interest in her old food. We found that Newman's Own Organic beef canned food was of interest to her and she would eat that heartily. But we had to start with baby food first. We also had to try a few types of canned foods before we found one she would tolerate. She was on the canned food for about two weeks before we started to slowly introduce her old kibble and FreshPet back into her diet.

Panmela A Cady21 Feb 2018Reply

aTypical addison's , didnt show up on any test, but for sure acted like it, started after my window cleaners came when I was at work and I am sure she went nuts. could this have triggered and episode
is this more common in shorthaired pointers? mine is !/2 Pit and Pointer
I just as a last resort shoved a prednisone in her mouth and an hour later she was out of crisis??? everyone is confused

Kelly24 Feb 2018Reply

My sweet boy , Scottie is in the ER at the vet in a crisis as we speak!!! He was lethargic, weak, vomiting, dehydrated. I called the vet and took him.in right away. As he lay on the exam table they came.in and.did a.stool sample, a few.minutes later as my husband is holding him, he thought our boy had diarreaha bit as he looked it was pure bright red blood! They admitted him right away but told us he may not make.it! He had his percorten shot yesterday and today hes in a crisis. Im so heartbroken. This boy is just like my child. Anyone else gone through this and have your dog actually pull through??!!

Joanne24 Feb 2018Reply

We have had our standard poodle to the vet twice before the vet suspected Addison's. He had the bloody stool, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, lethargy, hair loss and shaking. She suspected Addison's the second time and treated him with an IV, a couple of shots. Sent us home with shots and more IV fluid along with an antibiotic to be administered and he started perking up after 48 hours. He is a tougher case as when he was 11 months old he was diagnosed with Hemolytic Immunosuppresive Disorder and had to be hospitalized and transfused. This threw a wrench in everything because it is an autoimmune disorder. She now thinks he was misdiagnosed by the other vet and that it was probably the onset of Addisons. He is doing much better today, Saturday and she started treating him as having an Addisoniian crisis on Tuesday. So hang tough, it sucks, but it takes a bit of time and patience.

Vivienne24 Feb 2018Reply

Hi Kelly,
Yes we have gone through an Addisons Crisis twice before it was diagnosed correctly. Molly was only 12 weeks old the first time the vets did not get it right and she had a second crisis, this time they found the problem, she almost died both times. Now at 18 weeks old she has a little Prednisolone each day and will have an injection once a month to begin with, she is now a happy little healthy little girl full of fun again. So don't be disheartened dogs can live a long healthy life with this disease. All you have to do is pay attention to changes in her habits and act on them. Hope this is helpful.
Vivienne

Veronica27 Feb 2018Reply

My standard poodle, was diagnosed with Addison diease, she is only 13mos old, she seemed fine, all of a sudden, she start laying around, shaking, then she stopped eating. The vet took blood and temp, temp low, blood work came back abmormal. He said then it looks like Addison diease. She stayed overnight, given fluids, and steroids, and started eating a little. She's home now, she have been put on a shot once a month, sent home with steroids by month. Antibiotics. Her energy have picked up a little more, I hope everyone be ok . I think God she was caught early. It was no diarrhea, no vomiting, I'm nervous about leaving her alone. Keep looking up.

Maria04 Mar 2018Reply

My puppy a havapoo started to vomit on a Friday then I noticed he did eat or drink that Saturday. Took him to the vet and he said he had a virus. Sunday he still wasn’t eating and only drinking if I forced him Monday I took him back to the vet saw a different one she Suspected Addison disease but had to sent him to the hospital They didn’t think it was that told us it didn’t look good he was in kidney failure thank God my vet was in contact with them and demanded that they ran test for Addison. Overnight stay at hospital put on iv which corrected the kidney failure. Went to my vet and he’s was out on Prednisones at this time doesn’t need the shots. That was about three weeks ago still concerned as he his not quite the same puppy as before. He is eating and drinking but not as playful as before he doesn’t play with his toys hasn’t greeted us like in the past yesterday we had a bad storm with lots of wind and rain notice that he was shaking a lot and he throw up I had just started to decrease his med so I went back to dosage before. I am always looking up about this disease. So worried that it might happen again. Puppy will be two this month.

Cindy 11 Mar 2018Reply

My 17.5 year old Bostion Terrier, we know had Addison Disease. Based off of her symptoms and chemisty work up. After reading all the post here and how much she could endure with this disease. We made the decision to put her to sleep. It has been so hard, I hurt every minute since we did it on yesterday, but we could not have her suffer any longer. She spend one night in the ER and the next monring we decided to let her go to doggy heaven. Its been so hard. This disease will turn your loved four legged furry child into someone you do not know. Good luck to all who is having to deal with this dreaded disease. God Bless!

Marcus Spiller16 Mar 2018Reply

We had a 5-year old Maltese and I noticed Tuesday that he wasn’t himself, very lethargic, no appetite, shakes, diarrhea and vomiting. Called the Vet Wednesday morning and they advised to feed him some chicken breast and broth. He ate very little, but dranked water. Was planning to take him to visit the vet if wasn’t better Thursday morning, but he passed Wednesday night. Emergency ER stabilized him for a little, but then he succumbed.. Devastated!!

lja16 Mar 2018Reply

how very sad. 🙏🏻

Myriam16 Mar 2018Reply

So sooty! It’s heart wrenching!
Thinking about you!
Myriam

Patty Smith 14 Apr 2018Reply

Our standard poodle was diagnosed several years ago. He was stabilized and put on florinef pills, which he is still on. 3 in the am and 3 at pm. He is presently 5yo and doing great. Don't give up. We get blood drawn once a year, or anytime we feel there may be a problem. So far so good, I won't change to the injections d/t the problems I read about.

Jennifer Donini 05 May 2018Reply

My 4 yr old pit was diagnosed yesterday with Addison’s. I just brought him home and he is still acting very lethargic and not himself. I have a feeling I’m going to be worried a lot. It sounds like a lot of varying stories about the long term.

Dana Forrest14 May 2018Reply

I just lost my 3 year old pug, Charlie, to Addisons yesterday morning. My heart hurts. The crisis. was acute and came on so fast. He started with vomiting on Wednesday, we took him to the vet, assumed some type of stomach bug. Thursday was diarhea with blood so we were back at the vet who put him on stronger meds. By Thirsday.afternoon he went into full crisis, we went to the ER,. he was in shock, got a.secondary sepsis infection,. and eventually died 2 days (and $9k) later due to a blood clot caused.by rhe sepsis (they think). The only comfort I have is the my family was their.visiting 30.minites.before.he.passed.and.the.vet said it was really quick. She was petting him. and then his heart just stopped. As I learn more about this.terrible disease, I realised the ER docs were not really completely forthcoming. The said it was easy to manage the disease with a daily pill and monthly shot, but everything I read is saying you have to be really in tune with you dog and watch for symptoms. Seems like a life of constant worry. I probably should have put him down sooner and not got my family into this huge debt and potential a life time of future debts had he survived but my heart couldn't let go. For anyone trying to make this decision, do what is right for you, but take the time to do your own research from different sources. And don't feel guilty one way or the other. Whatever decision you make, is the righr decision for you and no one elses business.

Donna06 Jun 2018Reply

My son just lost his 6 year old black last night to this disease. No symptoms, he crashed yesterday, they rushed him to the ER vet, they thought they could save him, sadly he coded several times last night and they were unable to bring him back. They are devastated, he was a wonderful dog and will be deeply missed.

Casey Cox11 Jun 2018Reply

My 6 old dog went into addisonian crisis on Friday he was in hospital from then and come home today Monday. But he is still weak and not eating. I'm giving fluids and force feeding him chicken. Did anyone have this experience when did your dog start eating themselves? I'm sick with worry that I'm losing him

Steve Harris11 Jun 2018Reply

I see no replys to your post from 2018. I hope everything turned out ok for you and your baby. I have the exact same situation as yo posted. Friday into vet for two days. Brought my 6 year old home and I cant get him to eat.
Did your dog finally start eating on his own? How long did it take to go back to normal. Did you do anything special to return your dogs health to normal eating?

Viola18 Jun 2018Reply

My border terrier was diagnosed with Addison about 5 years ago. After fluorinef was stopped here (UK) she has been on injections if Zycortal every 25 days and daily prednisone tablet. I give her the injections. Once she was stabilised on medication she was absolutely fine with no symptoms. She is now 13.

Misty22 Jun 2018Reply

My Great Dane got diagnosed with Addison’s I have never heard of this before!!! It’s a scary feeling to have my boy look so sick and not know how to help him now that he gets his shot monthly he is doing well!!!!! How ever his shot is $200 a month ughhh I just love my big baby I’m willing to go I to Dead Just so he can be with us alittle longer he is only 4 and hope we have more time with him

Jill25 Jun 2018Reply

I feel like I need to bring a little more optimism to this conversation. I have a 10.5 yo chihuahua poodle mix who was diagnosed with atypical Addison’s 5 years ago. The diagnosis stage was terrible because it took about a week to figure out, and she almost died during that time. But thankfully she didn’t, and she has been living her best life since then! She gets a pill every day, and I give her a shot at home every month (it’s harder on me than it is on her!) but she is happy and healthy and I couldn’t imagine not having her in my life as a result of this disease.
I am definitely in tune with her moods and I can sense when she needs her shot (if she’s had a stressful month with thunderstorms and vet visits sometimes she gets it a day or two early.) So it’s definitely helpful to know your dog well. And it’s not super cheap, although there is now a generic for Percorten and it’s about $150/vial which can last 6+ months. Learn to give the injection yourself (it can be subcutaneous even if your vet says differently, my first one said intermuscular only which is MUCH harder to do at home, but I did more research and SC has worked just fine) and that will save you a lot of money in the long run. We do a full electrolyte panel each year, but other than that the maintence costs aren’t too bad. So while there are obviously lots of different scenarios, if anyone’s pup was just diagnosed, take heart - lots of dogs live completely normal and wonderful long lives with Addison’s.

McKala G25 Jun 2018Reply

Thank you so much for bringing this light. We have a 10 year old American Bulldog/Lab mix who is the center of our family, who was just diagnosed this week. Reading the stories and the information on it all can be terrifying. We know he's getting older - and recognize eventually his time will come, but it's comforting to know older dogs can live through this too!

Beverley Woodward 30 Jun 2018Reply

My dog was diagnosed with Addison’s disease in Nov 2017 , she’s my baby ,she is doing good with the cortisone and shot every 29 days ,her electrolytes took awhile to be okay but she is good ,today she was shaking more than normal but fireworks are going off , I would do anything for her ,not sure who rescued who 🐾🐾, so should I tell vet about her shaking

Vivienne30 Jun 2018Reply

Yes defiantly tell your vet, they will probably double her daily meds for 24 hours, never wait.Vivienne

Dave07 Jul 2018Reply

I have a 8 year old boxer that was diagnosed with Addison when she was 6 months old. She's the best friend I've got !! Over the years theirs been many ups and downs,she's been through 3 vets. If you don't think things are right ,don't think twice about changing. The vet she is going to now is great !! The cost to treat this disease is high , but are friends are worth it!! I hope everyone's pets are doing well,don't give up

Chummy Roo16 Jul 2018Reply

Our almost 5 year old, female, English Springer Spaniel had an Addison’s Crisis exactly a month ago today. My husband and I were out of town and we had hired my son’s friend to come and hang out with our two dogs when my daughter was at work, so they wouldn’t be lonely. I was scheduled to come home a week later than I did, but an lucky I came home when I did. A day and a half later one of our fur babies started acting odd. She wouldn’t come in, she refused her favorite treat, actually turning around and looking into the corner. She had also developed diarrhea, which was diagnosed on the first vet visit, as gastritis. That was 11:00am. By 3:30 I wasn’t really able to rouse her. The vet suggested I take her to the emergency vet. The emergency vet is about 20 minutes away and by the time we go there, she was in a complete coma. Six days later, 9 pounds lighter, she has come home. I worry about her but then remind myself that just last Friday she has completely normal labs (today is Sunday). She had been having vague symptoms for quite sometime that could always be explained away as inconsequential. Now, after the fact, things have fallen into place. Our vet doesn’t allow us to by our own bottle of injectibled, so with the lab and injection, it was almost $400. We love her and as long as she’s not suffering we will do what we need to do to get her treatments. When she first came home, we had her on a diet of boiled chicken and rice, slowly transitioning to her regular food. One thing, we were using “Pill Pockets” and they caused horrible gastric side effects and diarrhea in both dogs. They were handy but not an option for our pups. Good luck.

Diana12 Aug 2018Reply

Our 10 year old shipoo was diagnosed with Cushing disease last May but was overdosedfrom Vetoryl after the vet increased dosage. He was in crisis but luckily was given prednisone right away and got better the next day. This week the vet recommended to switch to dexamethasone for 2 weeks so LDDS ca be done to see where his cortisol level at. I gave him .25 mg of dexathemasone yesterday morning and he started vomiting and muscle weakness last night through today. Don't know what to do .... we don't have money to bring him to emergency vet hospital.

Kathryn17 Aug 2018Reply

I'm wondering if anyone out there has ever had any experience with a false positive ACTH test. My dog was diagnosed with Addison's on New Year's Day of this year, but I'm starting to wonder if perhaps he really doesn't have the disease at all. Sure, maybe I'm just hoping that it's not the case, but I'm really starting to wonder. He is a 26-pound Keeshond-Pomeranian mix -- so, a male dog that is not among the breeds that are typically affected. He had a severe loss of appetite for about 6 days, followed by shaking on the sixth day, which is when he was diagnosed. He had none of the other symptoms. His electrolytes tested as completely normal last month, but he was on 2.5mg of Prednisone daily, plus Percortin (until we could no longer get it) and now Fludrocortisone, instead. I asked my vet a month ago if we could reduce the Prednisone and she said we could cut back to 2.5mg every other day instead of daily, provided we kept a close eye on him. It's been about 5 weeks and I see no difference in his behavior, eating, elimination, etc. Any thoughts?

Jeff26 Aug 2018Reply

Our 11 year old boxer may have addison's disease. We are going to the vet on Monday for the test. She collapsed when a she saw a dog barking at her on one of our walks. She spent 3 days at the vet, and is now home for the weekend. The vet had to order the test, so hopefully it will be in on Monday. She is resting comfortably, and seems ok, but she is very lethargic. She has anemia, which I have read can be a symptom, but didn't notice anyone on here talking about that with their pet. We had shaking episodes with fireworks around the 4th of July this year, which she never had any fear of them before. We are actually hopeful that it is addisons, and not something worse. At least with the addisons, we can give her the medications, and buy her a little more time.

Suzanne 30 Aug 2018Reply

My 10 year old Border Collie Lloyd has recently been diagnosed with Addison’s disease. It was an ordeal obtaining the diagnosis as the first vet ran bloods, abdominal ultrasound and still no diagnosis. The second vet did a more thorough abdominal ultrasound and more bloods and diagnosed Addison’s. His symptoms were massive weight loss, panting at night, lethargy and his black nose was turning pink. The first vet had no idea what was wrong but put him on 40 mg of Prednisone. Lloyd started persistent vomiting after a week and I was told to stop the prednisone. I reduced it as I was aware of the risks of suddenly stopping such a high dose. I changed vets had the tests repeated and reduced the prednisone slowly over three months. He is now on 4mg daily and he appears well. He is often tired but he appears to be happy. He only walks short distances but still listens for motorbikes so he can run to the fence and chase them. Trying to avoid any stress in his life and hopefully he will make another few good years. The symptoms first started to show when I had to leave Lloyd in a kennel for a week while I was in hospital.

LaJean 18 Sep 2018Reply

We have an 8 year old Lab that we have been treating for Addison's for the past three years. The injections that he requires for his weight is more than $300 per month. Has anyone out there found the treatment to be cost prohibitive? I honestly don't know what to do.

Myriam coppens18 Sep 2018Reply

Your vet is overcharging you!
Please read what people have written.
I have a dog, 14 pounds, diagnosed with this illness. Clearly at times sadly fatal, but at other times can have a good life!
I have had to stand up to my vet in regards to cost! Don’t feel guilty! Speak up! This is your dog you love!

Helga Sowa18 Sep 2018Reply

Hi laJean.
I hope that your Lab has survived Addison's? Our Yellow Lab is also 8 years old and been diagnosed with Atypical Addison's. See my note previously at the bottom of the blog.
How did your lab tolerated the injections, were they Steroids also? The Vet put ours on 50 mg of Prednisone @ day but our Dog was like 'high' and hyper from it. He is now on 25 mg only but it is still not really improving. I just came from the Vet to have another Cortisol test and Urinalysis test done, hoping to have the results on Monday,May 10, 2021, to discuss further treatment.
I would very much like to know, what people describe as 'Crashes' look like. I took the dog for a walk after the Vet visit on Friday, he trotted along nicely. Sniffing on everything and lots of peeing and a good poop. Suddenly he started whimpering, hurrieng under a bush and scratching leaves, and lying on his side, still whimpering. I was so afraid he would die right there in the Park.
He recovered after 5 - 10 Minutes and I talked and strokes him all the time.
Is that what would be considered a 'Addison's Crash'? He eats well and drinks a lot of Water but he cannot hold his Urine for long. The longest was 3 1/2 hours.
He is definitely not happy and we are sleep deprived as we get up every 2 plus hours during the night.
Your thoughts would be appreciated very much and I do hope you still enjoy your Lab today.
Warm greetings, Helga Sowa,
Toronto, Canada.

Archer 15 Nov 2018Reply

I have a 9 year old Scottie that was diagnosed with Addison’s 3 years ago. He’s doing just fine, although he has gained about 5 pounds. It’s an expensive treatment, I purchase the generic, zycortal bottle for about $300 from the vet and they administer it, it lasts approx 3 to 4 months, he’s 30 pounds. He also takes prednisone daily.

Linda J28 Nov 2018Reply

My dog was diagnosed with Addison's about 5 or 6 years ago. She's a Westie, and she was losing weight rapidly and shaking. Google said it was Addison's, but my vet thought it was cancer. My vet said the labs were normal, but when I googled the things that were off, the ratio of potassium/sodium pointed to Addisons as well as the urinalysis due to a specific gravity that was off. She has lived a very normal life. She is a little lethargic, but that is probably the biggest issue, which is no problem at all, really. I give her a monthly shot of percorten myself, mostly due to the stress that my dog has when we go to the vet, and a daily prednisone pill. I give her .5 mg of prednisone and .4 ml of percorten every 28 days, now zycortal, due to the problems with percorten related to the hurricane in Puerto Rico. The disease is very manageable. I would recommend looking for signs of problems, like shaking or losing weight, and adjust medications accordingly. I buy a supplement from Standard Process called Canine Adrenal Support. I sprinkle a little on her food each morning and it seems to help her with increased energy. Also, I give her a Thorne supplement that is a immune system support. I make her dog food that I use in addition to dry kibble. Just For Dogs makes a great "metabolic support" dog food that is delivered to your house frozen if you don't want to make your own. I would feel terrible if I didn't do everything that I could to help my dog have the best life possible. I feel it's my duty as a dog owner. She's 13 1/2 years old now and going strong.

Myriam28 Nov 2018Reply

Thank you for you’re great suggestions.
Very much appreciated your information!
Wish you many more years of joy!

Lauren24 Apr 2019Reply

I am wondering if anyone has had an experience similar to mine. It’s a little lengthy but all the details are important. My 11 yr old pit had a Pyometra last month and had to have an emergency spay. Surgery went well and so did recovery until 4/5 days after surgery. She began carrying a toy around and acting as if it were a baby, nesting for hours a day, whining, lactating and stopped eating. She was drinking water but not much. I noticed about a week after this behavior began that she was growing weaker. The vet dismissed me and said it was nothing to worry about. I came home one day to find her unable to stand. I rushed her to the vet where her glucose was 45. Blood work was perfect and she was much better after eating. We were advised to take her to the emergency vet which we did. That vet suggested we keep a close watch but did not suspect anything abnormal. All of that happened on a Friday night. Sunday morning I woke up to her vomiting and having diarrhea. I took her back to the vet where they said her glucose was 31. Now the vet says they cannot confirm it but he feels certain she has an insulinoma. I am skeptical and convinced that the Recent spay and hormonal changes have had something to do with this. Has anyone else’s dog had low glucose during a crisis? Any feedback would be helpful.

Maureen06 May 2019Reply

I have a 14 year old pomeranian (Hemi). He's had addison and now blind and deaf due to MARS behind the eye. Not much studies happens with two months go onset. /This month it been hell with lose bowels and on flagel changed his food to chicken and rice now on canned stomach food mixed with rice. doing well but loose bowels continue. Anyone got answers

Lise Howe26 Apr 2020Reply

I want to add a positive note here. I had a Addisonian standard poodle who was diagnosed when he was about three.and did just fine until he was about fourteen and a half. We got him a shot once a month (29 days) and medication - Prednisone every other day. He was fine and had a great life. When we lost him last fall, we adopted another Addisonian standard poodle. I think this one will be a little harder to keep stable but now I know that even doing everything according to schedule may not keep him stable. He gets his medication every day and his shot like clockwork, but he had been losing his appetite and had diarrhea and one vomiting episode three days ago. I had his blood work checked today and his electrolytes were out of balance. Now I know that if he starts to get droopy or vomits and gets diarrhea, it is time to head straight to the vet.For everyone with a new diagnosis of Addison's, don't give up hope. Once you get them stable, you and your precious four legged child will be fine.

Henriette Hansen06 May 2020Reply

Our 6 years old bishon havanaise boy had 3 month with lethargic, shaking, drinking peeing, depression, weightgain snd later weightloss. Was treated for First hypothyroidism and later also Addisson.He didnt really respons to treatment and was suffering so much. Crying and so weak. We had to put him to sleep. So hard to see him suffer like that. So sad.

Annette molloy05 Sep 2020Reply

I have a pug 4 years old who has been diagnosed with Addisons after having her womb removed ... she has put in so much weight and is drinking really excessively and peeing so much .. she is on the normal Addisons meds...

Veronica 10 Nov 2020Reply

My baby have addisons disease. I just want you guys to know its an excellent site on face book. They help with your babies lab results, if you getting wrong dose. Check it out.

Sonja11 Nov 2020Reply

For those of who has to say goodbye to your pet my heart grieves for you.
For those whose animal have continued, after treatment, did your dog/cat perk up? Do they ‘improve’? Does the depression lift? Our dog is so sad he seems so miserable.

Mona28 Nov 2020Reply

My rescue dog is nine years old and weighs 18 lbs. He was diagnosed with Addison's four months ago. Initially, I took him to an emergency hospital, and while he was getting a CT scan (vet thought he might need surgery), his heart stopped. The vet administered CPR and revived him! Now she believed he might have Addison's disease and sure enough, tests showed he does! After an overnight at the hospital, my boy was stabilized and since then, I administer a daily dose of prednisone and a monthly injection of Percorten. Today, he seems to be suffering a sort of relapse since he's shaking a lot and he doesn't want his dinner (extremely rare). I plan to make an appointment for him next week to see if his meds need tweaking. Emergency treatment was pricey, and altogether vet costs have been about $6.5K. Like all of you, my boy is family and he is most precious to me, so I'm hoping he only requires a medication adjustment. I send my very best wishes to all of you who are treating your Addison's pup!

Lyndsay 03 Dec 2020Reply

My dog just diagnosed with Addisons last week, she is 6, she is on steroids and had fluids yesterday but she still sleeping lots and struggles to get up. What should I be doing, should I be making her get up and move, small walks, or just let her rest ? Vets appears to gace treated her but not told me anything else.

Nancy H03 Dec 2020Reply

the correct treatment depends upon the blood work. There are tupical and atypical types of Addisons. If you are not comfortable with how your dog is doing, get a second opinion from a vet at sn AAHA accredited veterinary hospital. Ask them to review the blood work and the treatment plan developed by the vet that gave you the Addisons disgnosis. .

Nancy H07 Dec 2020Reply

I have an English Cocker. He was diagnosed with Atypical-Atypical Addisons when he was 2.5 yrs old. This unusual type of Addisons requires him to have Percorten injections every 25 Days, but NOT low-dose Steroid pills. He is now 10. We have been warned thst stressful situations could put him at risk of developing full Addisons. So far we have been lucky to avoid that.

I have found that many vets have limited experience with Addisons and NO understanding of Atypical forms of it. If your vet is unable to diagnose your dog's problem, get another opinion. Go to a specialty clinic or go to an AAHA accredited vet hospital.

Lyndsay 07 Dec 2020Reply

Thank you replying to my message, sadly Willow passed away Wednesday night 5 days after diagnosis. Still in shock, such a dangerous disease i wished the vet had kept her in for observation longer as she clapsed Tuesday morning and put on a drip but later returned home that day with a view that the steroids should start to kick in as long as wasn't sick. Think this was too premature to place her back with us after a crisis, hence why she went back into crisis and died in front of us so quickly as couldn't get her to the vets in time.

Iris05 Jan 2021Reply

My rescue dog got very sick Dec 17th with vomiting diarhea and no appetite she's not quite 3.I took her to the vet the next day they admin IV fluids& Cerenia and sent me home w/antinausea meds&Flagyl.By monday she was worse with bloody mucus poop.I decided to bring a stool sample just in case and my Vet sent me straight to VET ER.after 4 days and all sorts of tests nothing conclusive$ 3500.00 later I still have a sick dog at home the ONLY thing that makes her better is Prednisone. 1st diagnosis was Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis Now they think Addisons the 1st Addisons was neg.I'm just beside myself.

Barbara18 Jan 2021Reply

My 8 year old Rottweiler was diag. 3 days ago w/ severe Addison's. Severely lethargic, not eating for 6 days..the Vet put her on Prednisone and the steroid shot I give at home. I am also giving her Iv fluids sub-q at home LR with B12 added. Her Bw was severe Addisons. What I found helpful from a post above..since she's not eating..BABY FOOD!!! I got the meat ones and she LOVED the Turkey(ate 1 small jar of it) and 1/2 a chicken one so far! Slowly if I can get her just eating that then progress to her dog food again will be a miracle. I pray she will get better and we can manage this illness!!! I refuse to give up on her!!! My vet says they don't have any pain with this illness which eases my mind.

Debbie 06 Feb 2021Reply

My fur baby is a rat terrier. She was diagnosed with addisons a yesr ago. She was doing great on the percoten. A few weeks ago she relapsed between the 25 day shot. I let her doctor know what she was doing and not doing. It took IV fluids and prednisone and over a week to get her back to eating and moving. It’s so scary because they go down so fast. My girl is 9 years old and doing much better. Best wishes to every fur baby mom and dad who is going they this.

Shellia22 Mar 2021Reply

My baby is a female Beagle mix. She has been sick for at least 4 weeks. First vet I took her to tested for pancreatitis test was negative. Next vet has been treating her for nausea and giving her Carafate. We are now waiting to get Addisons test back tomorrow. She is now on Presnisolone since Friday. Her shaking has gotten better. She will not eat I have tried everything for her to eat Toni avail. She is drinking water and is still walking around good. What do I do to get her to eat and what foods ?

Maureen Beardsmore04 Apr 2021Reply

In 2000 we got a Maltese X puppy who was eventually diagnosed at 8 years with Addisons after many misdiagnosis. Luckily Prednisone was the treatment for the problems the vet thought she had so by default it actually helped her Addisons and she was ok until at 8yrs when she had a crisis and was finally diagnosed.
With Florinef and Pred we were able to enjoy 15 years of unconditional love from our beautiful girl. Fast forward to 2019 almost 6 years after she passed and we brought home a gorgeous little Maltese X. It didn't take long for us to notice certain behavioural traits that we had seen in our previous maltese. Personality and behaviours we had not seen in any of the other 6 dogs we have had. The similarities were so obvious our family started saying it was our previous dog reincarnated! No surprise then that when at 2 years of age she suddenly went downhill with vomiting, shaking etc.
Emergency vets, fluids etc nearly lost her.
Diagnosis. ACTH stim test positive for Addisons. She is now stabilised and on the appropriate meds. We know what to expect this time so we will watch her closely in times of stress and hopefully we can enjoy 15 years of unconditional love again.

Mary-Clare Johnson 06 Apr 2021Reply

Hi, my 1 year old cockerpoo Ruby was diagnosed with addisons today. She had been in the emergency vet for 2 days being treated for gastroenteritis and they also suspect poisoning.
I've read further attacks can be caused by stress?

Deanna Anzevino11 Apr 2021Reply

Hello all. I had to send my 15 1/2 year old Rocco (Italian Grey Hound) to Heaven yesterday due to a sudden Addisonian Crisis. No changes in our life, no stressors, nothing but a big question Mark as to why this happened. Reading all the above posts from so many people with different dogs I have to wonder why? Is there a common factor with all of us? Is it something that is in some dog foods or treats that causes this but not yet discovered? I wonder if anyone Is compiling info and trying to find a cause or two? Idk, I can’t stop crying, he meant so much to me and the last few days were like no other.. very sad disease..

Suz11 Apr 2021Reply

I am so sorry for your loss!

Helga Sowa14 Apr 2021Reply

Our 8 year old Lab was diagnosed with Atypical Addison disease 2 weeks ago. He was to take 5 mg Prednisone twice per day, every 12 hrs. The effect was, he needed to pee every hour, desperate to get out the door. Also lost control of his Bladder during the night, 3rd day of treatment. Obviously the dose was too high and we gave him half the dosage, 2.5 mg twice a day. He still has to pee every 2 hrs, but during the night he may last 3-4 hrs. He is eating normal, like most Labradors, always wants more!
Last night I woke up, he slept for 5 Hrs but..his bed was wet, he lost Bladder control again. This is definitely NOT what our dog is happy about and it is very stressful for us. He has never had an accident in the house or car before his diagnosis. Reading all the posts you pet lover have written, nobody mentioned anything regarding excessive URINATING?? He seems to drink a lot of water which apparently is due to the Prednisone.
He never had any shaking but we experienced Seizure like episodes, thinking he might have Epilepsy.
During a walk, when he would run off leash a bit wild for a few minutes with another dog, he suddenly whimpers, looking for some bushes to crawl under and just collapses! It's terrifying, we think it's like he is looking for a place to die. This has been happening for the last 3 - 4 years, especially during hot weather, we always carry water with us though. When it happened during a cold Wintery Walk and this episode happened, we got really, seriously concerned. We suspected he might have a Heart issue but our Vet always assured us, his heart was fine. Now, that he has been diagnosed with Addison, we do hope, the situation will improve. He will have another test in a week or so, to determine if his Cortisol level has increased. We do hope we will have another 4 yrs at least with our loving companion.
Thank you, Helga.

Lindsay14 Apr 2021Reply

Our German shepherd was just diagnosed a month ago and even with normal electrolyte levels and the two medications she has uncontrollable loose stool and urinating issues. We don’t know what to do.

Suz 14 Apr 2021Reply

I would go to a vet that specializes in endocrine issues. The reason he was running Everett the bushes is because without enough cortisol their fight or flight reflex is messed up. Stress they can’t handle. I don’t know about the urination. My dog was just diagnosed and he’s only nine months old. I don’t know what to expect so I’m reading everything I can find.

Matthew 23 Apr 2021Reply

My 7 year old terrier mix was diagnosed with Addison’s after a crisis event 4 days ago. She spent 2 night at the vet hospital and came home yesterday. During the crisis event she developed ataxia and a head shake. Since being home the ataxia continues, she can no longer use the steps, and cannot jump to the couch. Any others have a dog with ataxia after an addisons crisis? Hoping with time it will resolve.

Dylan23 Apr 2021Reply

My 1.5 year old rottweiler was diagnosed with addisons yesterday. luckily our normal vet is also an emergency clinic so they hospitalized her for the night. The vet said she was eating and playful which seem to be true as she isnt as skinny as she looked. She was even jumping on the vet when she came back in the room today, but when we got home after she went potty shes just been sleeping. I called the vet and they said thats normal. I feel im over reacting but i just want to be sure she is okay. does it take time for the medicine to fully work on her and kick in?

Jeanine05 May 2021Reply

My 9 year old yorkie Annie was diagnosed with atypical Addisons last week. She has been in and out hospital for almost 2 months , i have been an emotional wreck! She has had Atleast 3-4 crisis during that time , never getting back to normal. She normally weighs around 6 lbs. she is now 4 and a half lbs. Annie is now on lowest dose of prednisone and has made a big improvement, she seems to be back to herself... I feel for all of the pups and owners who have to go thru this horrible disease. BTW the totaled cost has been over $5000!!

Signs Your Dog Is Having an Addisonian Crisis

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