The adrenal gland is a small gland located near the kidney that secretes several different substances that help regulate normal body functions. Addison’s disease occurs most commonly in young to middle-aged female dogs. Syptoms may include: Lethargy Weakness Poor appetite Vomiting Weight loss Depression Dehydration Diarrhea Excessive thirst Cool to touch Shaking Slow heart rate Addisonian crisis in dogs Addison's disease in dogs, also known as hypoadrenocorticism, affects the production of hormones in the adrenal glands, which are located near the kidneys.
It is a disease that results from the reduction in corticosteroid secretion from the adrenal gland. The signs of Addison’s disease may be severe and appear suddenly, or may occur intermittently and vary in severity. Addison's disease in dogs is also known as hypoadrenocorticism. The average age is about 4 years old.