Treating hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism cannot be cured but it can be successfully managed using medication to replace the missing thyroid hormone.

Treatment significantly improves your dog’s quality of life and prevents the development of other, potentially life-threatening conditions, for which treatment can be intensive and costly.

With daily medication and careful monitoring you will soon notice marked improvements, your dog will quickly become more alert and attentive, and other symptoms will improve over the coming months.

You may notice that as a result of new hair growth, old hair will fall out and a mild itching may develop. If need be you can assist the recovery of the skin and coat by combing your dog or your veterinary surgeon may recommend using veterinary animal care products. 

Monitoring your dog

A blood test will be performed between 4 and 8 weeks after starting treatment to check your dog’s hormone levels. This will need to be performed 3 hours after a dose of Thyforon. It may be necessary for your veterinary surgeon to adjust the dose of Thyforon after interpretation of the blood test.

When your veterinary surgeon is happy with your dog’s progress and T4 levels have normalised, it is strongly recommended that you visit your veterinary surgeon for regular monitoring.

It is important that you continue giving your dog the prescribed dose of Thyforon every day. Even if you notice dramatic physical improvements in your dog’s health you should not stop treatment. Thyforon will resolve the outward signs of hypothyroidism, but it will not cure the disease.

Monitoring is important and regular checks performed by your veterinary surgeon will ensure your dog continues to get the best possible care.

If you become concerned about your dog’s health and welfare you should consult your veterinary surgeon.