Hypothroidism in Pets What are the main symptoms? Almost any symptom can be a result of thyroid gland malfunction since the hormones influence the metabolism of most of the organs in the body. Common symptoms observed when the thyroid is very ill include: skin and ear problems of any sort, lethargy, weight gain, mood issues and even neurological problems like seizures. The word "thyroid," of Greek origin, means "shield-shaped". The thyroid glands are a pair of glands at the base of the neck where the trachea (windpipe) enters the chest. The thyroid secretes and regulates hormones responsible for metabolism and organ function - thyroxine, T4 and triiodothyronine & T3. The thyroid gland is regulated by brain (hypothalamus and pituitary). Jean Dodds Advice According to Jean Dodds (go a Google search for all of her articles on hypothyroidism), Dr Christina Chambreau, DVM homeopath 1
90% is due to autoimmune thyroiditis (and what is commonly done to animals that influences the immune system vaccines). She has been tracking genetic lines of dogs since she posits a genetic susceptibility. In homeopathy (and other holistic approaches) we would say the vital force is weak, causing the gland to malfunction in an attempt to rebalance the vital force. By treating all symptoms from a young puppy with curative homeopathy, there will be little chance of starting with hypothyroidism. Types of Dogs Affected While many sites list golden retrievers, Doberman pinschers, greyhounds, Irish setters, dachshunds, miniature schnauzers, Great Danes, poodles, and boxers as breeds most at risk, Dr. Dodds lists 50 breeds predisposed to develop thyroid disease. Since the female can pass anti-thyroid antibodies in the colostrum, it would behoove breeders to do a thyroid panel and antibody test pre-breeding, but wait until after puberty. Males 10-14 months. Females first anestrous after maiden heat. Annual testing would be recommended, Dr Christina Chambreau, DVM homeopath 2
looking for values to stay in the mid to upper levels. http://www.canine-epilepsy-guardianangels.com/thyroiddisease.htm http://www.itsfortheanimals.com/adobe/dr- Dodds-Thyroiditis-2006.pdf DOG COLLARS Results of Using Collars Peter Dobias, a homeopathic veterinarian in Vancouver, pointed out to me that using collars on dogs for walking can damage the thyroid of course where does the collar presses when a dog pulls on it! He has also seen front paw licking, ear and eye issues improve when dogs are switched to harnesses where the leash attaches under the chest. I had always been aware of the chiropractic issues of using collars. Check out his web site - http://www.peterdobias.com/ If testing shows a problem yet there are no overt signs, we can begin treatment with Dr Christina Chambreau, DVM homeopath 3
remedies or other supplements. We can carefully evaluate for any early warning signs. We can evaluate offspring birthed so far. HOMEOPATHY Rubrics Since the thyroid can cause any illness, there will be many different rubrics. If we know the thyroids are not normal, then you can use External Throat, goiter, even though it may not exactly represent the disease in the dog. Ears discharges whatever they are Ears inflammation Ears redness Generalities obesity Generalities lassitude Generalities weakness Generalities convulsions, epileptic Generalities vaccines, after Head - hair, falling Mind - hydrophobia Skin almost any rubric will work Dr Christina Chambreau, DVM homeopath 4
OTHER MODALITIES The use of the following methods will not interfere with a well-taken and evaluated homeopathic case: Reiki, Flower Essences, HTA, Therapeutic Touch, Massage, nutritional supplements (if not too many). If homeopathy is not working for you or you cannot find a homeopath to help you (lots now, so probably not a problem), there are herbal combinations like World Herbs for Pets or NZymes that can help. VACCINES As Jean Dodds points out this is an immune problem, so a key strategy is to drastically limit your vaccines. NUTRITION This is the main support to helping dogs with low thyroid problems and preventing them in the first place. Fresh is Best! Dr Christina Chambreau, DVM homeopath Dr Christina Chambreau, DVM homeopath 5