We have four 12-week-old incredibly beautiful fluffy white Husky puppies. There are three females and one male. Cookie has blue eyes; Cheesecake is our male; Creampuff is super white; and Divinity has a pinkish nose.
Provided to the LVN
Dear reader, a friend recently expressed concern because her lovely Golden Retriever named Sally had developed hyperthyroidism and she wanted to know what I knew about the disease. I had to admit that I had not heard of it in dogs but I wanted to find out what it is.
Hyperthyroidism is a relatively rare disease in dogs. All dog breeds can get the disease. However; Beagles, Boxers, Golden Retrievers, and Siberian Huskies have a increased chance of developing a thyroid tumor and it often occurs in older dogs.
The thyroid is a gland located in dog’s necks that produces essential hormones that help regulate body temperature and metabolism. Problems arise when the thyroid produces too much or too little of the hormones. Production of excessive hormones is hyperthyroidism.
The usual reason for this change in the glands function is thyroid carcinoma, which is a fast-growing cancer of the thyroid. Some of the symptoms include, swelling under the neck, weight loss, gagging, increased thirst, and difficulties swallowing.
Interestingly, dogs who consume commercial raw meat diets contaminated with thyroid tissue can develop hyperthyroidism. In addition, supplements containing kelp or seaweed can also trigger tumor growth.
There are treatments available depending on the cause. If the tumor is benign, then surgery is the curative. If diet or supplement is the cause, discontinuing these will resolve the problem.
Treating a cancerous thyroid tumor can be a challenge but there are several tools to use including radiation, radioactive iodine therapy, and chemotherapy.
Of course, you will need to work closely with your veterinarian to map out a course of action.
Left untreated, thyroid carcinoma is likely to grow and spread to other parts of your dog’s body.
Early diagnoses and treatment is the key to keeping your BFF healthy and allowing them to enjoy more years of a quality life.
Prognosis for Sally’s recovery is good. Fortunately, her tumor is benign and she is an excellent candidate for surgery. Her diet has changed from raw meat to high quality dog food and she does take prescribed drugs. I love a happy conclusion!
ATTENTION
• CAPS will be at the Home and Garden Show on Saturday, April 13 and Sunday, April 14 at the Fallon Convention Center.
• McHoppers Brew on Hwy 395 in Fernley on Saturday, April 13 from noon to 6 p.m.
• CAPS Spring garage sale is Friday, April 26 and Saturday, April 27. We need items! Please bring your items to Oasis Church on Thursday, April 25. Call 775-423-7500 for details.
LOOKING FOR A HOME
We have one 7-month-old white and black puppy to adopt. Call 775-423-7500 for details. Cat lovers, we have cats galore and they are fabulous. Come out and meet them.
IN NEED OF
• Board members: We need energetic, enthusiastic, community-minded folks our board. We meet once a month the second Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. 775-423-7500 for details.
• Bleach, laundry detergent pods, toilet paper and paper towels.
• Aluminum cans. We will pick up your cans; give us a call at 775-423-7500. You can also drop them off at CAPS.
SHOUT OUT TO
Our current board members Janis, Mavis, Genevieve and Rebecca. You are the heart and soul of CAPS!
COME SEE US
CAPS is open to the public on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
We suggest appointments for adoptions and food pantry.
DON’T FORGET
• March Holiday: March is National Puppy Month. We have darling puppies!
• View our wish list at Chewy.com.
• Over the Rainbow: If you would like your pet remembered send his/her name and a short description to Kathleen Williams-Miller a CAPS volunteer, at jkwmil@outlook.com.
• Would you like a newsletter? Call 775-423-7500 or email caps@cccom.net.
• CAPS’ mailing address is P.O. Box 5128, Fallon, NV 89407. CAPS’ phone number is 775-423-7500. CAPS’ email address is caps@cccomm.net. Please visit the CAPS website (www.capsnevada.com) and Facebook page (Churchill Animal Protection Society). Be sure to “Like” CAPS on Facebook because we are likeable.
Kathleen Williams-Miller, a CAPS volunteer, at jkwmil@outlook.com.